Luxating patella surgery in dogs costs $1,500-$3,000 per knee. The procedure deepens the groove where the kneecap sits and realigns the surrounding structures to prevent the patella from sliding out of place. Small breeds are most commonly affected, and bilateral surgery (both knees) is often needed.
A luxating patella is a kneecap sliding out of its groove. Grade 1 pops out occasionally and self-corrects. Grade 2 pops out frequently, sometimes needs manual repositioning. Grade 3-4 is permanently displaced. Surgery recommended for Grade 2+. Most common in small and toy breeds
Surgery deepens the groove, realigns the patellar ligament attachment, and reconstructs soft tissue as needed. The combination depends on grade and anatomy. Takes 1-2 hours per knee under general anesthesia. Multiple corrections in one surgery
6-8 weeks total. Strict rest 4-6 weeks, leash walks only. Gradual activity weeks 6-8. Physical therapy speeds healing. Follow-up X-rays at 6-8 weeks. Most dogs walk normally in 2-4 weeks. Long-term joint supplements recommended. Full recovery in 6-8 weeks
Per knee. Bilateral surgery: $2,500-$5,000. Physical therapy adds $50-$100 per session.
Over 90% of dogs have good to excellent outcomes. Re-luxation occurs in about 10% of cases.
Surgery takes 1-2 hours per knee. Most dogs go home the same day or next morning.
Grade 2-4 luxation, progressive lameness, pain, or early arthritis development in the affected knee.
02/04
Per knee.
Most comprehensive policies cover luxating patella surgery if enrolled before symptoms appear. Confirm policy covers hereditary/congenital conditions - some budget policies exclude them. Diagnostics, surgery, follow-up typically included.
Many insurers impose a 6-month orthopedic waiting period for luxating patella. Any lameness during this period permanently excludes the condition. Enroll before any symptoms appear, especially for young dogs.
$1,500-$3,000 per knee exceeds most deductibles. Bilateral at $2,500-$5,000 makes insurance valuable. With $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement, save $800-$2,000 per knee.
Some insurers treat bilateral luxating patella as a single condition. If one knee was affected before enrollment, both may be excluded. Others treat each separately. Check bilateral clause before enrolling.
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