Joint Luxation
Joint luxation is one in which one or multiple ligaments are injured or ruptured. Ligament injuries are classified as 1st degree, 2nd degree and 3rd degree:
· 1st degree – minor overstretching of the ligament
· 2nd degree – partial tearing of the ligament
· 3rd degree – complete tearing or avulsion of the ligament
Severe ligament injuries result in significant joint instability and bone luxation. The joint instability causes a mechanical dysfunction during the phase of weight-bearing on the leg; the load of the weight on a not congruent surface causes pain and lameness.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on clinical examination, radiography, and joint manipulation under general anaesthesia. Sometimes radiography is performed to apply stress traction to the joint
The red circle marks a dislocated elbow
The green circle marks a normal elbow
Treatment
Mild ligament injury (grade 1) may be treated with painkillers and rest. However, severe ligament injury (grades 2 and 3) requires surgical reconstruction.
The surgery
Early repair of the ligaments is necessary to minimize irreversible cartilage changes; repair technique with sutures or ligament reconstruction with anchor screws and synthetic ligament can be used to stabilize the joint.
Outcome
Aftercare consists of exercise restriction for 6 to 8 weeks.
Good limb function is often seen after surgery.
Case Studies
Pre-op XR
Post-op XR
Post-op XR
The radiographs reveal luxation of the stifle due to multiple ligaments ruptures.
The ligaments were replaced with nylon secured with crimps passing through anchor screws.
The ligaments were replaced with nylon secured with crimps passing through anchor screws.
