SURGICAL-CORRECTION OF PATELLAR LUXATION IN A CHEETAH (ACINONYX-JUBATUS)

A bilateral, grade 4, medial patellar luxation was diagnosed in a 7-yr -old cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). The animal had a long standing histor y of difficulty in rising, bilateral lameness, and reluctance to walk. Radiographs showed severe osteoarthritis and medially displaced patel lae. Both knees were operated upon within a 12-wk period. The techniqu e used consisted of desmotomy, exostosis removal, double wedge osteoto my, narrowing of the patella, tibial tuberosity transposition, and fas cia lata imbrication. The stability of the patellae was excellent afte r surgery. The clinical recovery resulted in better ambulation, a lack of lameness, and normal ability to rise 12 wk after the last surgery.