Patellar dislocation and instability
Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction, realignment and arthroscopic trochleoplasty when the kneecap dislocates repeatedly.
- What it is
- The medial patellofemoral ligament keeps the kneecap from sliding outward. After a dislocation it may become insufficient and the kneecap dislocates again with twisting or bending. In some patients the shape of the trochlea or the position of the tibial tubercle favours instability.
- When it is indicated
- Surgery is indicated in recurrent dislocations and in first episodes with osteochondral fragments or anatomic risk factors. An uncomplicated first episode is usually treated with physiotherapy.
- How it is performed
- The ligament is reconstructed with a graft fixed in anatomic position and verified arthroscopically, a double-bundle technique the doctor has published. If bony abnormalities exist, realignment procedures or an arthroscopic trochleoplasty are combined.
- Recovery
- A brace for a short period, followed by progressive motion and quadriceps strengthening. Return to sport is decided on functional criteria.
- Procedures the doctor performs
- Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction
- Patellar realignment procedures
- Arthroscopic trochleoplasty
- Treatment of associated osteochondral fragments
Other procedures
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
- Meniscal injuries
- Posterior cruciate ligament and multiligament injuries
- Cartilage and osteochondral injuries
- Knee arthroscopy and stiffness
- Corrective osteotomies and joint preservation
- Knee replacement
This content is general information. It does not replace a medical assessment: every case is evaluated in consultation with physical examination and imaging.