Patellar ligament repair with ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene implant results in successful outcome in 9 dogs.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe the outcomes of patellar ligament (PL) reconstruction with an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) implant secured with an interference screw in dogs. ANIMALS: Medical records from 7 referral centers were reviewed for dogs treated for PL rupture between 2021 and 2025. Cases treated exclusively with UHMWPE implants with a minimum follow-up of 6 months were included. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: Dogs presented with lameness and examination findings consistent with PL rupture, confirmed by radiography in all cases. The data collected included diagnostic test findings, surgical technique, complications, follow-up, and outcomes. Canine Brief Pain Inventory scores were obtained at the final follow-up. Radiographic measurements were used to assess the patellar ligament length-to-patellar length ratio in operated and contralateral limbs over time. RESULTS: 10 stifles from 9 dogs met the inclusion criteria. Median follow-up was 18 months (range, 1.5 to 3.8 years). No major complications were recorded. The patellar ligament length-to-patellar length ratio decreased after surgery. Return to activity was reported between 2 and 6 months postoperatively. Full function was recovered in 7 dogs; 2 dogs showed mild lameness beyond mid term. Canine Brief Pain Inventory scores in 8 dogs had a median of 4/100 (range, 0 to 26). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The UHMWPE implant provided effective repair without major complications in all 10 cases and resulted in acceptable to full functional outcomes in 9 dogs. The observed outcomes suggested that this technique could minimize the need for postoperative immobilization and may be associated with a low complication rate.