Patellofemoral stabilisation

Surgery for recurrent kneecap dislocation is chosen according to the cause of instability. The two most common procedures are medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy. They may be performed alone or together.

MPFL reconstruction

The MPFL is the main soft-tissue restraint preventing the kneecap dislocating outwards. Reconstruction replaces the damaged ligament with a tendon graft fixed to the kneecap and thigh bone. Return to sport commonly takes 6–9 months.

Tibial tubercle osteotomy

This procedure repositions the small bony attachment of the patellar tendon on the shin, improving kneecap tracking or unloading an area of damaged cartilage. The bone is held with screws while it heals.