Patella

The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, is a small, flat, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint. In dogs, the patella plays a crucial role in the function of the hind limbs by assisting in the extension of the leg during movement. The patella sits within the patellar groove of the femur (thigh bone) and is stabilized by ligaments and muscles.

Patellar luxation is a common orthopaedic condition in dogs where the patella moves out of its normal position within the patellar groove, typically towards the inside (medial) of the knee. This displacement can cause lameness, pain, and difficulty in movement. Patellar luxation can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the condition and restore normal function to the affected limb.