Correction of patellar luxation by recession sulcoplasty in three foals.

This research article discusses a study where three foals with lateral luxation of the patella (kneecap displacement) were treated using a surgical procedure called recession sulcoplasty in combination with medial imbrication of the joint. Although one foal had to be euthanized due to septic arthritis caused by incisional dehiscence, the other two foals were healthy two years post-surgery.

Study Objective and Methodology

• The main aim of this research was to correct lateral luxation of the patella in foals using recession sulcoplasty in combination with medial imbrication of the joint.
• The study involved three foals, with a total of four femoropatellar joints affected. Recession sulcoplasty is a surgical procedure where a ‘groove’ or ‘ditch’ is made on the side of the patella, reducing its propensity to dislocate.
• The procedure was complemented by medial imbrication of the joint, a procedure that involves tightening the medial (inner) side of the joint capsule. This was performed to further constrain lateral patellar movement.

Study Outcomes and Conclusion

• Although one of the foals had to be euthanized due to septic arthritis, an inflammatory joint disease caused by bacterial infection due to wound dehiscence post-surgery, the other two foals showed positive results two years after the procedure.
• This suggests that the surgical procedure was largely successful. It indicates that this combined method might be an effective intervention for lateral patellar luxation in foals.
• The combination of recession sulcoplasty and medial imbrication of the joint resulted in a functional femoropatellar joint.
• The research concludes that this combined surgical approach should be considered for foals affected with lateral patellar luxation. However, it should be noted that careful post-operative care must be undertaken to prevent complications such as septic arthritis.