Surgical Repair of Bim’s Fragmented Patellar Fracture

Bim, a German Shepherd, was brought to Veterinarium with grade 5th lameness. While moving, he was completely unable to bear weight on his left hind limb.

The patient underwent a radiographic examination. Based on the findings, Veterinarium’s Head Veterinarian, Dr. Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, diagnosed a fragmented patellar fracture of the left hind limb.

Considering Bim’s condition, surgical treatment was recommended. Before surgery, the patient underwent pre-anaesthetic examinations at Veterinarium:

• Complete blood count with morphology, blood biochemistry and electrolyte testing
• Echocardiography

The results were assessed by Veterinarium’s cardiologist and anaesthesiologist, Natia Robakidze, who developed an individualised anaesthetic protocol tailored to the patient’s condition.

A particular challenge of the surgery was the presence of multiple small patellar fragments, which could not be reliably fixed using standard metal implants. Therefore, to stabilise the fragments and restore the extensor mechanism of the knee, the patella was sutured using a non-absorbable suture material and the Krackow whip stitch technique. With this technique, the non-absorbable suture is passed along the tendon in a series of consecutive locking loops. The resulting strong construct helps distribute tension evenly, maintain the stability of the small fragments and protect the extensor mechanism of the knee during healing.

The surgery was performed by Veterinarium’s Head Veterinarian, Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, assisted by Mariam Kapanadze. Anaesthesia was managed by Natia Robakidze.

Bim successfully completed rehabilitation and has fully regained the use of his left hind limb.