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Purpose Patellofemoral instability is a common cause of knee pain and dysfunction in paediatric and adolescent patients. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the frequency of patellar dislocations seen in emergency departments (EDs) and the rates of surgical procedures for patellar instability at paediatric hospitals in the United States between 2004 and 2014. Methods The Pediatric Health Information System database was queried for all paediatric patients who underwent surgery for patellar instability or were seen in the ED for acute patellar dislocation between 2004 and 2014. This was compared with the annual numbers of overall orthopaedic surgical procedures. Results Between 2004 and 2014, there were 3481 patellar instability procedures and 447 285 overall orthopaedic surgical procedures performed at the included institutions, suggesting a rate of 7.8 per 1000 orthopaedic surgeries. An additional 5244 patellar dislocations treated in EDs were identified. Between 2004 and 2014, the number of patellar instability procedures increased 2.1-fold (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4 to 3.0), while orthopaedic surgical procedures increased 1.7-fold (95% CI 1.3 to 2.0), suggesting a 1.2-fold relative increase in patellar instability procedures, compared with total paediatric orthopaedic surgeries. Conclusion This study shows a significant rise in the rate of acute patellar instability treatment events in paediatric and adolescent patients across the country. Surgery for patellar instability also increased over the study period, though only slightly more than the rate of all paediatric orthopaedic surgical procedures. This may suggest that increasing youth sports participation may be leading to a spectrum of increasing injuries and associated surgeries in children. Level of Evidence IV

Recurrent patellar dislocation in combination with cartilage injures are difficult injuries to treat with confounding pathways of treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of patients operated for patellofemoral instability with and without cartilage defects.Eighty-two patients (mean age 28.8 years) with recurrent patellar dislocations, who underwent soft-tissue or bony procedures, were divided into two matched groups (age, sex, follow up and type of procedure) of 41 each, based on the presence or absence of cartilage defects in patella. Chondroplasty, microfracture, osteochondral fixation or autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC)-type procedures were performed depending on the nature of cartilage injury. Lysholm, Kujala, Tegner and Subjective Knee scores of both groups were compared and analysed. Complications and return to surgery were noted.With a mean follow up of 8 years, there was a significant improvement observed in all the mean postoperative patient-reported outcome measures of both groups, as compared with the preoperative scores (P 0.05). Comparing the two groups, postoperative Lysholm, Kujala and Subjective knee scores were significantly higher in patients operated without cartilage defects (P 0.05). Three patients operated for patellofemoral instability with cartilage defects underwent patellofemoral replacement subsequently. The odds ratio for developing complications was 2.53 for patients operated with cartilage defects.Although there is a significant improvement in the long-term outcome scores of patients operated for recurrent patellar dislocation with cartilage defects, the results are significantly inferior compared with those without cartilage defects, along with a higher risk of developing complications and returning to surgery.

Most patellar dislocations are associated with disruption of the proximal medial patellar restraints (PMPRs). The PMPRs comprise the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and medial quadriceps tendon-femoral ligament (MQTFL). Although isolated MPFL reconstruction is the most frequently performed procedure for the surgical management of recurrent dislocation, recent studies have shown that the MQTFL has a synergistic role with the MPFL in resisting lateral patellar displacement close to full extension. It has therefore been suggested that surgical techniques that gain the benefits of both proximal and distal PMPR biomechanical behavior may be best. This article describes an established technique for combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction using semitendinosus autograft.

Introduction: Trochlear dysplasia is a known risk factor for patellar dislocations yet normal trochlea development is not well described. This study will define the articular cartilage and subchondral trochlear morphology development in pediatric patients using MRI evaluation. Methods: Retrospective knee MRI review including patients aged 3-16 years with non-patellofemoral related diagnoses. ICD-9/ICD-10 codes identified eligible study patients. Measurements of the trochlea were made based on previously established methods using the axial MRI image just distal to the physis at the deepest portion of the trochlear groove. Three linear (Lateral Trochlear Height (LTH), Medial Trochlear Height (MTH), Central Trochlear Height (CTH)) and three angular (Sulcus Angle (SA), Lateral Trochlear Slope (LTS), Medial Trochlear Slope (MTS)) were made at the Articular Cartilage (AC) and Subchondral Bone (SCB) (Figure 1). Twelve measurements were made independently by two study authors. Interrater reliability was assessed. Trochlea measurements were summarized across age quartiles: 1st (age 5.1 - 8.3y), 2nd (8.3 - 11.5y), 3rd (11.5 - 14.3y), 4th (14.3 - 16.9y). Associations between age and trochlea measures were assessed using linear regression with Huber-White adjusted standard errors. Results: 246 knee MRIs from 230 patients were included in this study. 113 patients (51%) were female while 117 (49%) were male. 116 MRIs (47%) were of the Left knee and 130 (53%) were Right knee. Average patient age was 11.4±3.4 years. Interrater agreement was high (ICC values >0.7). Mean values for measurements are presented by age quartiles (Table 1). LTH, MTH, and CTH showed linear increase with age (range 2 to 2.6 mm per year, p0.05) however LTS and MTS measured at SCB showed significant increases with age (0.6 and 0.9 degrees per year, p0.05) however for MTH, LTH, and CTH, males were found to have a significantly greater growth rate (p

‘Numerous operations have been described for correction of recurrent dislocation of the patella. The number in itself predicates that the problem has not been solved'. This classic discusses the original publication ‘Diagnosis and treatment of recurrent dislocations of the patella' from Trillat A, Dejour H, Couette A. Published in 1964 at the Revue de Chirurgie Orthopedique et Reparatrice de L'appareil Moteur, where the authors described a surgical procedure modifying Elmslie's original surgery for patients with objective patellar dislocations and also for patients with anterior knee pain who had the sign of the ‘baionnette'. Medialisation of the anterior tibial tubercle (ATT) has been known worldwide as the Elmslie-Trillat procedure, but the history of procedure has its roots going back to 1888. The history of the publications of the Elmslie-Trillat technique is really something special. Cesar Roux published in 1888 the original technique that is similar to Elmislie's procedure. In 1944 in London, Trillat met Selddon and became aware about Elmslie's procedure for the ATT medialisation. Back to France, Trillat published and named it as the Elmslie's technique. Later, after the ‘Journees du Genou', the technique was disseminated as ‘The Elmslie-Trillat' procedure. Nowadays, isolated ATT medialisation, the ‘true' Elmslie-Trillat operation, is still occasionally performed. Too few surgeons use these elegant operations largely because the details of the techniques are not taught routinely. This classic section has the objective to encourage young surgeons to learn tibial tubercle transfer operations and the benefits they bring to patients when performed for proper indications.

Purpose: To provide a direct comparison between medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and the other medial patellofemoral soft-tissue surgeries in the restoration of the medial patellar restraint after lateral patellar dislocations in the absence of untreated predisposing factors such as high grade trochlear dysplasia, knee malalignment, patella alta or high tibial tubercle-trochlear groove distance. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane-library, Web of Science, and gray literature databases were searched to find all the relevant records. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were performed following the Cochrane and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. Different techniques to treat lateral patellar dislocation in the absence of untreated predisposing factors were compared in terms of redislocation and complication rates, Kujala, Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee, and Tegner scores at the short-term (3 years) and long-term (>3 years) follow-up through meta-analyses. Results: Six studies involving 319 knees were included in the meta-analysis. The analyses of redislocation (0.7% vs 2.9%) and minor complication rates (12% vs 9%) showed no significant differences between MPFL reconstruction and other medial soft-tissue surgeries. Significant differences favoring MPFL reconstruction were documented in Kujala and Lysholm scores at short-term (8.6, P

Background Lateral patellar dislocations mainly affect active teenagers and young adults. To help people recover, non-surgical exercise-based treatment is often recommended but the optimal exercise-based treatment is unknown. Currently, treatment outcomes after this injury are variable. Common problems include recurrent dislocation, reduced activity levels, and later surgery. A programme of intense leg resistance exercises, and dynamic exercises related to participants’ activity-related goals, has rationale, but has not been previously reported. In line with the Medical Research Council guidance, this study aimed to assess the acceptability of a novel evidence-based exercise programme for adults after acute lateral patellar dislocation and the feasibility of future research evaluating this treatment. Methods A single-group prospective study was conducted at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK. Participants were 16 years or older with an acute first-time or recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. Participants received up to six face-to-face, one-to-one, physiotherapy sessions, over a maximum of 3 months, and performed intensive home exercises independently at least three times per week. Strategies to increase exercise adherence were used. Primary objectives were to determine the number of eligible patients, the recruitment rate (proportion of eligible patients that provided written informed consent), participant adherence to scheduled physiotherapy sessions and self-reported adherence to prescribed exercise, and intervention acceptability to participants measured by attrition and a study-specific questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results Fifteen of 22 (68%) patients with a lateral patellar dislocation were eligible. All eligible (100%) were recruited. Two of 15 (13%) participants provided no outcome data, 2/15 (13%) provided partial outcome data, and 11/15 (73%) provided all outcome data. Questionnaire responses demonstrated high intervention acceptability to participants. Participants attended 56/66 (85%) physiotherapy sessions and 10/11 (91%) participants reported they ‘always’ or ‘often’ completed the prescribed exercise. One participant redislocated their patella; another experienced knee pain or swelling lasting more than one week after home exercise on three occasions. Conclusion The intervention appeared acceptable to adults after acute lateral patellar dislocation, and a future randomised pilot trial is feasible. This future pilot trial should estimate attrition with increased precision over a longer duration and assess participants’ willingness to be randomised to different treatments across multiple centres. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.govNCT03798483, registered on January 10, 2019

Background: Patellar dislocations are common among youth athletes. A detailed understanding of patellofemoral anatomy is critical to determine patient prognosis and guide treatment and decision making. Recent literature suggests that measures of patella position relative to the trochlear groove may help identify individuals at risk of repetitive dislocations. While these measures were described using MRI, it is plausible that ultrasound imaging can be utilized to provide similar information in a more cost-effective and time-efficient manner. Purpose: To determine intra and inter-rater reliability of two newly described ultrasound-based measures of patella positioning within two novice examiners. Methods: Subjects were seated with the limb supported in full knee extension and neutral rotation. (Figure 1a) The examiners independently gathered all images and were blinded to each other’s measures for the duration of the study. The transducer was positioned transversely, on the anterior aspect of the knee such that the lateral trochlear ridge, center of trochlear groove, and proximal portion of the patellar tendon were all visible in cross-section. (Figure 1b) Two linear measures were obtained, representing the distance from midpoint of the patellar tendon to a) the center of trochlear groove (MPT-CTG) and b) the lateral trochlear ridge (MPT-LTR). Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The average of two measures were used for data analysis. There was a minimum of 1 week between assessments for those subjects with repeated testing. Results: A total of 11 subjects (mean age 15.3) without history of knee pathology were included. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in either measurement between limbs with MPT-CTG and MPT-LTR values (mean±sd) as follows: MPT-CTG right 8.4mm ± 3.0, left 8.4mm ± 3.3; MPT-LTR right 12.2mm ± 2.7, left 11.6mm ± 2.3. For reliability analysis, each knee served as a discrete variable, yielding a total of 22 data points for evaluation. Inter-rater reliability (n=22) was moderate to good for both measures, with ICC values of 0.724 and 0.814 for MPT-CTG and MPT-LTR, respectively. Intra-rater reliability (n=10) was good to excellent with ICC values of 0.913 and 0.794 for MPT-CTG and MPT-LTR, respectively. (Table 1) Conclusions: This new measure of patella positioning demonstrated moderate to excellent reliability and may be a practical, cost-effective alternative to MRI. While it is encouraging that the subjects in this sample demonstrated no side-to-side differences in either measure, future research should focus on establishing criterion validity and reliability amongst individuals with patellar instability. [Figure: see text][Table: see text]

Case A 53-year-old woman presented with a locked knee after an atraumatic hyperextension episode. Imaging showed an anterior tilt of the patella hinging over the superior trochlear margin, consistent with a superior patellar dislocation. The patella spontaneously reduced on an intra-articular injection with 15 mL of lidocaine in normal saline, after which she was able to actively range her knee. Conclusion Superior patellar dislocations are rare and usually result from a sudden forced contraction of the quadriceps, trapping the patella over superior trochlear osteophytes. Reduction is possible through an intra-articular local anesthetic injection, without manipulation of the patella.

Due to his multifactorial aetiology, treating patellofemoral instability can be a challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. The incidence of patellofemoral instability shows a peak during adolescence, especially from 11 to 14 years old. Several clinical studies focusing on recurrent patellar dislocations in skeletally immature patients have been published, reporting inconsistent or controversial results. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding the surgical management of these patients. The purpose of this study is to update current evidence and systematically review indications, treatments, and outcomes of surgical management for recurrent patellar dislocations in skeletally immature patients. A comprehensive review of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, the PRISMA Statement. The following electronic databases were accessed in February 2019: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, CINAHL, EMBASE. All the articles treating surgical management for recurrent patellar dislocations in skeletally immature patients were considered for inclusion. For the methodological quality assessment, we referred to the Coleman Methodology Score (CMS). For the statistical analysis, we referred to the unpaired t-test to establish whether the results are statistically significant. The overall CMS resulted in 52.78 points, attesting a satisfactory methodological quality assessment to this systematic review. A total of 21 articles including 623 patients (577 knees) were evaluated. The overall mean age was 13.02 years. The mean follow-up was 46.61 months. The mean Kujala score improved from 58.94 ± 10.38 to 87.07 ± 7.68 points. The Lysholm score reported a pre- and post-operative mean values of 49.54 ± 14.20 and 88.32 ± 8.80, respectively. The mean Tegner Activity Scale scored 4.28 ± 1.22 at baseline, improving to 5.26 ± 0.83 post-operatively. A total of 4.19% of patients incurred into a major complication, while 9.6% sustained a minor one. We observed a total of 89 re-dislocations above 692 treated knees (12%). The main findings of this study are that surgical procedures for skeletally immature patients affected by recurrent patellar dislocations are feasible and effective. Complications and re-dislocations occurred infrequently. It is of fundamental importance to treat precociously these patients in order to reduce the risk of further recurrences, to increase the level of sporting activity and improving the quality of life.

Purpose: Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) surgery combined with trochleoplasty (TP), is often performed to restore the normal patellofemoral biomechanics avoiding recurrent lateral patellar dislocation (LPD) in patients with trochlear dysplasia (TD). However, it is still unclear whether combining TP and MPFL surgery would be more beneficial than performing MPFL surgery on its own. This meta-analysis quantitatively synthesizes and compares published data on the outcomes of recurrent LPD treatment using MPFL surgery without or with TP in patients affected by TD. Methods: A systematic literature search about the treatment of recurrent LPD in the presence of TD was conducted. The primary outcome was redislocation rate, analyzed for different types of TD. Kujala, and IKDC scores, as well as complication rate, were also analyzed through a separate meta-analysis. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in the overall redislocation rate of MPFL surgery without and with TP. There was, however, a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in redislocation rate after MPFL surgery without TP between patients with type A or B TD (2.7%) and in patients with type C or D TD (18.6%). In the analysis for every single type of TD, the following results were obtained: redislocation rate of 1.8% in type A, 3.2% in type B, 11.9% in type C, and 7.4% in type D. A statistically significant difference in the complication rate, favouring MPFL surgery without TP, was documented. Both surgical approaches provided a significant improvement with no difference in Kujala and IKDC scores. These results were confirmed when data were analyzed including only patients with type B, C, or D TD, or without additional bone remodelling procedures. Conclusion: Isolated MPFL is as effective as combined TP and MPFL surgery in preventing redislocation and improving clinical and functional outcomes in patients with recurrent LPD and knees affected by moderate TD. However, in case of severe TD, the redislocation rate is lower when TP is performed in combination with MPFL surgery, although with comparable clinical outcomes and a higher risk of post-operative range of motion (ROM) limitation. Level of evidence: Systematic review and meta-analysis, Level IV.

With an incidence of 5.8 per 100,000 per year, patellar dislocations are commonly seen in the emergency department. Surprisingly, there are only a few studies available that focus on the results of the different non-surgical treatment options after first-time patellar dislocation. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the most recent and relevant studies on the rationales and results of the non-surgical treatment for first-time patellar dislocation. Patellar instability mainly affects young and active patients, with a peak incidence of 29 per 100 000 per year in adolescents. The medial patellofemoral ligament, a main passive restraint for lateral translation of the patella, is torn in lateral patellofemoral dislocations. Treatment of first-time patellar dislocation can be either conservative or surgical. There are two options in conservative management of first-time patellar dislocation: immobilization using a cylinder cast or removable splint, or, second, functional mobilization after applying a brace or patellar tape. The current available literature of conservative treatment after a first-time patellar dislocation is little and of low quality of evidence. Conclusions should be drawn with care, new research focussing on non-surgical treatment is therefore strongly needed. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:110-114. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180016

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the main restraining force in the first 20 degrees of flexion against lateral patellar displacement and is disrupted after patellar subluxation or dislocation. MPFL reconstruction is frequently performed when conservative management fails and the patient has recurrent patellar dislocations. However, a variety of complications have been reported in the literature with this procedure. Internal bracing with suture tape augmentation encourages healing and allows early mobilization. This article describes, with video illustration, MPFL repair with suture tape augmentation.

The acute primary (first-time) lateral patellar dislocation is associated with a high rate of functional disability. There is no consensus as to the choice of surgical or non-surgical treatment for these patients. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical results between the surgical (reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament [MPFL]) and non-surgical treatments for acute primary patellar dislocations. Sixty-nine skeletally mature patients (69 knees) were included in this prospective non-randomized controlled trial. At least one predisposing factor for patellar dislocation (including patella alta, high lateral patellar tilt, trochlear dysplasia, and increased TT-TG distance) was identified in the included patients. Thirty patients were treated surgically with MPFL reconstruction, and the other 39 patients were treated non-surgically. The main outcome variable was patellar redislocation within a two year follow-up period. The Kujala questionnaire was applied for analyzing the pain and the quality of life. The additional surgeries due to patellofemoral problems were also recorded. Patellar redislocation occurred in eight patients in the non-surgical group, while no redislocation occurred in the surgical group (P

Background: First-time lateral patellar dislocations have historically been treated with a nonoperative approach; a clinical tool to predict patients who are most likely to redislocate may have clinical utility. Purpose: (1) To determine if there are discriminating factors present between patients who redislocated their patellas and those who did not after a first-time lateral patellar dislocation and (2) to use this information to develop a model that can predict the recurrence risk of lateral patellar dislocation in this population. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The study population included those with first-time lateral patellar dislocation, magnetic resonance imaging within 6 weeks, and 2-year minimum follow-up. Cohort A was from a prospective study with 2-year follow-up. Cohort B was a prospectively identified cohort with retrospective chart review. Follow-up was obtained clinically or via mail for patients without 2-year clinical follow-up. Results: Sixty-one patients (42%) out of 145 with primary lateral patellar dislocation had recurrent dislocation within 2 years. Stepwise logistic regression analysis demonstrated that skeletal immaturity (odds ratio, 4.05; 95% CI, 1.86-8.82; P = .0004), sulcus angle (odds ratio, 4.87; 95% CI, 2.01-11.80; P = .0005), and Insall-Salvati ratio (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.34-6.70; P = .0074) were significant predictors of redislocation. Receiver operator characteristic curves defined the cut points to be sulcus angle ≥154° and Insall-Salvati ratio ≥1.3. The probability of redislocation based on the presence of factors was 5.8% with no factors present and 22.7% with any 1 factor present, increasing to 78.5% if all 3 factors were present. Conclusion: This model demonstrates a high risk of lateral patellar redislocation when a patient presents with skeletal immaturity as well as magnetic resonance measurements of sulcus angle ≥154° and patellar height as measured by Insall-Salvati ratio ≥1.3. A patient will have a low risk of lateral patellar redislocation with the inverse findings.

Medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC) is considered as the primary medial patellar restraint and has a static, as well as dynamic, component. MPFL reconstruction (MPFL-R) restores only the static component of MPFC, is associated with multiple technical concerns, and has a steep learning curve. Need for physeal sparing techniques and relatively high rates of complications including patella fracture are some other concerns with MPFL-R. We propose a simple procedure for advancement of MPFC onto patella, which is indicated in most of the recurrent lateral instabilities (with a positive lateral glide test result and an intact MPFL on magnetic resonance imaging). The procedure is also indicated in selective acute primary dislocations—those with associated chondral lesions and magnetic resonance imaging–documented isolated patellar side avulsion/injury. MPFC advancement is a more anatomical procedure that also restores dynamic medial checkrein of patella and can be performed even by a novice surgeon. MPFC advancement is devoid of the multiple technicalities of MPFL-R, does not require intraoperative imaging or any postoperative immobilization, and renders complications like donor graft-site morbidity and patella fractures irrelevant. It requires no modifications in patients with open physes and can be performed in isolation or with other procedures as per à la carte principle., Technique Video Video 1 Medial patellofemoral complex advancement using suture anchors in a patient with recurrent lateral patellar instability.

Background:Most patellar dislocations occur in a lateral direction because of a summed lateral force vector and predisposing anatomic risk factors. Medial patellar instability is rare and is a well-recognized iatrogenic complication of an overly aggressive lateral retinacular release. Noniatrogenic medial patellar dislocations are rare. The management of these injuries is not well described.Purpose:To describe the experience of the International Patellofemoral Study Group with patients with noniatrogenic medial patellar dislocation.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:Members of the International Patellofemoral Study Group (N = 64) were surveyed between October 2018 and April 2019. This group was chosen because of its wide referral base and interest in patellar instability. Specialists who had encountered a patient with medial patellar instability were sent a questionnaire inquiring about details of the case, including patient demographics, medical history, level of athletic competition, injury characteristics, and treatment. Cases were confirmed by physical examination records and, in some cases, with findings on advanced radiographic imaging.Results:The survey response rate was 73% (47/64). Three of the 47 specialists (6.4%) reported they had seen a case of noniatrogenic medial patellar dislocation, for a total of 6 cases. Four cases were described as recurrent medial dislocations in the setting of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome; 2 were treated nonoperatively, 1 underwent lateral patellofemoral ligament reconstruction, and 1 underwent derotational osteotomies. Two medial-sided patellar dislocations in collegiate athletes were sports-related injuries that required surgical debridement but no ligamentous reconstruction. None of the patients had persistent or recurrent instability at the time of their most recent follow-up.Conclusion:Noniatrogenic medial patellar dislocations are extremely rare. This case review suggests that the treatment of first-time medial patellar instability in patients without known risk factors should follow the same principles as the treatment of lateral instability with no known risk factors, which is nonoperative management. For patients with documented risk factors and recurrence, surgery to address the risk factors may be appropriate.

Patellar instability and associated patellar dislocation can result in significant pain, disability, and associated injuries in young athletes. The patellofemoral joint is a complex articulation with stabilizing restraints, both medially and laterally, that help guide the patella into the corresponding trochlear groove as the knee cycles through an extension-to-flexion arc. In addition to soft tissue injuries, many osseous aberrancies can contribute to patellar instability in young athletes, including trochlear dysplasia, patella alta, and axial and coronal plane abnormalities. There is a role for nonoperative treatment in these young athletes; however, if recurrent or associated injuries are identified surgical intervention is warranted. Correct diagnosis of the underlying cause of the patellar instability is paramount to developing a surgical plan that will yield the most favorable outcome for these young athletes.

Abstract A 68-year-old female suffering from habitual patellar dislocations following a mal-positioned total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was successfully treated with a biplanar closed wedge distal femoral osteotomy (CWDFO) and medial patello-femoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction. To the best of our knowledge, no such case has been previously described. Our experience with this case suggests that treatment for a patella dislocation following valgus mal-positioning of TKA should be considered positively. Level of evidence V

Purpose: The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to compare the effects of repair of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and conservative treatment in patients with acute primary patellar dislocation (PPD). Method: The databases we used to search the studies included MEDILINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane registry of controlled clinical trials. Five randomized controlled studies comparing the effects of MPFL repair versus conservative treatment with 300 acute PPD patients were included in the present meta-analysis. Primary outcome was redislocation rate and secondary outcomes included Kujala score, percentage of excellent or good subjective opinion, Tegner activity score, and knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS; pain, symptoms, and activities of daily living). Results: The outcome of the Kujala score was statistically significant between the two treatments and indicated that MPFL repair had a higher Kujala score than conservative treatment in patients with acute PPD. There was no significant difference between the two treatments regarding the redislocation rate ( p = 0.32), percentage of excellent or good subjective opinion ( p = 0.15), Tegner activity score ( p = 0.24), and KOOS ( p > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on the available data, MPFL repair did not reduce the risk of redislocation nor did it produce any significantly better outcome based on the clinical manifestations, including anterior knee pain and knee activities. Only the Kujala score was improved by MPFL repair compared with conservative treatment.

Background: Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) injuries are common in patients with acute lateral patellar dislocations, but the pattern of MPFL injuries is unclear, especially with respect to patient age. Purpose: The primary aim was to determine the prevalence of MPFL injuries according to the site of injury in patients with acute lateral patellar dislocations. The secondary aim was to compare the site of MPFL injuries in patients aged ≤16 versus >16 years. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed with PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL to identify articles published from January 1, 1999, to May 31, 2019, that examined the site of MPFL injuries in patients with acute patellar dislocations. The study design, sample size, age at injury, technique used for diagnosing MPFL injuries (magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and/or surgery), and prevalence and site of MPFL injuries were extracted from each study. The pooled estimate of the proportion of MPFL injuries at each site was calculated (femur, patella, midsubstance, and combined sites of injury) as well as proportions stratified by age group (≤16 and >16 years). Results: The literature search yielded 420 unique articles, of which 52 were screened for eligibility; of these, 17 were excluded. Thus, a total of 35 articles (2558 patients) were included in the final analysis. The overall prevalence of MPFL injuries was 94.7% (95% CI, 91.2%-96.8%). Most MPFL injuries occurred at the patella (37.1% [95% CI, 30.8%-43.9%]), followed by the femur (36.8% [95% CI, 31.0%-43.0%]), combined sites (25.1% [95% CI, 20.7%-30.1%]), and the midsubstance (15.6% [95% CI, 13.2%-18.4%]). In patients aged ≤16 years, most MPFL injuries occurred at the patella (39.3% [95% CI, 27.9%-51.9%]), and in patients aged >16 years, most MPFL injuries occurred at the femur (47.2% [95% CI, 40.6%-54.0%]). Conclusion: The prevalence of MPFL injuries in patients with acute patellar dislocations varied by site of injury and by age. MPFL injuries at the patella were most prevalent overall and in children and adolescents, and MPFL injuries at the femur were more prevalent in adults.

Understanding the natural history of lateral patellar dislocations (LPD) is to understand the risk of reinjury. There are many elements that may factor in evaluating a “risk equation,” among them sport, age, and level of fitness. However, at the core of evaluating risk is understanding the unique role of one’s own anatomy in the risk of reinjury. This chapter will be a brief review of the present state of the influence of anatomic risk factors in the risk of reinjury after a primary LPD.

Injuries around the knee are often high-energy injuries. The anatomy of the distal femoral physis contributes to its stability and hence high energy is required for disruption of this physis. As the distal femur contributes to the majority of the growth of the lower limb, injury to this growth plate has a high incidence of growth disturbance. Supracondylar femoral fractures can be difficult to reduce and fix due to the short metaphyseal segment. Patellar dislocations are commonly seen in adolescents. Patellar fractures are the result of direct or indirect trauma in children. These can be associated with osteochondral fragments and sleeve fractures often seen in children. Mechanisms of injury, associated anatomy and management options for distal femoral fractures, distal femoral physeal injuries and patella injuries are discussed in this article.

Approximately one-third of skeletally mature patients with primary patellar dislocation will experience recurrent patellar instability over time. Because of the multifactorial combination of features contributing to overall stability of the patellofemoral joint, first-time patella dislocation presents a challenge to the treating physician. A detailed patient history, focused physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic imaging are essential for identifying risk factors for recurrent instability. Individual risk factors include young patient age, patella alta, trochlear dysplasia, and lateralization of the tibial tubercle. In combination these factors may pose even greater risk, and recently published predictive scoring models offer clinicians objective criteria to identify patients most at risk for recurrence. In patients at low risk of recurrence, nonoperative management can be effective, with "a la carte" surgical treatments gaining popularity in those with a higher than acceptable risk of re-dislocation.

Osteochondral injuries of the patella occur often in the setting of traumatic patellar dislocations. Early fixation of the displaced fragment(s) is paramount to maintaining the viability of the articular cartilage and the congruency of the patella. Multiple fixation techniques have been described to ensure stable fixation, including wires, screws, and all-suture techniques with both absorbable and nonabsorbable materials. We performed an open reduction and internal fixation of a large traumatic patellar osteochondral lesion using 3 bioabsorbable compression screws. The technique is straightforward and provides compression across the fragments, affording excellent stability, which allows early range of motion and ambulation.

Introduction: Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) injuries are common in children and young adults. Patellar dislocation is the complete displacement of the patella from the trochlear groove of the femur. It nearly always involves a lateral displacement and commonly occurs during sports. Current techniques of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction vary with respect to methods of fixation on the femur and the patella. In patients with recurrent patellar dislocations with normal lower-extremity alignment, anatomic reconstruction of the MPFL has been shown to restore patellar stability. We describe a technique that creates an anatomic reconstruction using a dual docking technique into the patella. Our technique is simple and efficacious for reconstructing the MPFL without implant fixation in the patella, allowing a maximal bone-tendon interface for healing. Results: It provided anatomic reconstruction, not reliant on implants in patella, Docking technique allows greater surface area for graft-to-bone contact. Discussion: The orthopedic literature is replete with techniques for the management of patella instability. These techniques include proximal soft-tissue procedures, distal osseous realignment procedures, and combinations of both. We are using Dual Patella docking technique here.

To determine the prevalence of high patella in adult patients with knee pain, and to correlate patellar height with symptoms of patellar instability, episode of patellofemoral dislocation and anterior pain in the knee; and also verify the concordance correlation between the Insall-Salvati and Caton-Deschamps indices.Cross-sectional study analyzing the medical records of patients with knee pain, using lateral view knee radiographs with 30° degrees of flexion and computed tomography. The values of the Insall-Salvati index and the Caton-Deschamps index were used to determine the patellar height.A total of 756 records were analyzed, resulting in 140 knees studied, 39% men and 61% women. Both indices produced statistically significant associations for the occurrence of high patella and signs of instability and episodes of dislocation, but there was no significant association for anterior knee pain. The Kappa index obtained when analyzing the concordance correlation between the Insall-Salvati index and Caton-Deschamps index points to a regular association between them.Patients with high patella present a higher prevalence of instability. Having a high patella has no significant relationship with the presence of anterior knee pain. The Insall-Salvati and Caton-Deschamps indices demonstrate a regular agreement on the presentation of patellar heights results.Determinar a prevalência de patela alta em pacientes adultos portadores de dor no joelho, correlacionar a altura patelar com sintomas de instabilidade patelar e dor anterior no joelho. Verificar índice de concordância entre os índices de Insall-Salvati e Caton-Deschamps.Estudo de corte transversal, com análise de prontuários de pacientes portadores de dor no joelho e radiografias em perfil do joelho a 30° graus de flexão e tomografia computadorizada. Usadas as medidas do Índice de Insall-Salvati e Índice de Caton-Deschamps para determinar a altura patelar.Foram analisados 756 prontuários, 140 joelhos, 39% de homens e 61% de mulheres. Para ambos os índices obtivemos associações estatisticamente significantes para a ocorrência de patela alta e sinais de instabilidade patelar, entretanto não houve associação significativa para a dor anterior no joelho. O índice Kappa obtido para analisar a relação de concordância entre o Índice de Insall-Salvati e Caton-Deschamps aponta para uma associação regular entre eles.Pacientes portadores de patela alta apresentam maior prevalência de instabilidade na população estudada. Ter patela alta não apresenta relação significativa com a presença de dor anterior do joelho. Os Índices de Insall-Salvati e Caton-Deschamps apresentam concordância regular na apresentação dos resultados das alturas patelares.

Acute patellar dislocations, most commonly in the lateral direction, carry high risk of recurrent patellar instability. The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is one of multiple ligaments found surrounding the patella and is one of the primary stabilizers of the patella. Up to 94–100% of patients suffer from medial patellofemoral ligament rupture after first time patellar dislocation.1 Due to a six degree valgus angle between the femur and tibia in the coronal plane along with a similar angle between the trochlear groove and the tibial tubercle, there is a lateral force vector acting on the patella with the contraction of the quadriceps.2 The primary role of the MPFL1 is to resist this lateral migration of the patella and to keep the patella centered within the patellofemoral groove. The MPFL is the primary ligamentous restraint of the patella, providing 50–60% of the restraining force against lateral displacement.3 It is most effective between 0–30° of flexion, with the trochlea becoming the primary restraint to lateral migration beyond this range. The MPFL is most commonly injured during lateral patellar dislocation. This typically occurs when the foot is planted and an internal rotatory force is applied to the flexed knee in valgus.4 It is the most important structure that is injured in cases of acute dislocation of the patella.5

Acute patellar dislocation is a common cause of traumatic hemarthrosis and is associated with multiple anatomical abnormalities including patella alta, trochlea dysplasia, and malalignment of lower limbs. The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) stabilizes the patella in the early flexion or terminal extension and ruptures in most of first-time patellar dislocations. Thorough radiological evaluations of the MPFL and predisposing anatomical properties are required for the planning of management of recurrent instability. Conservative treatment is the mainstay management of first-time patellar dislocation and achieves good to excellent outcome in most of the patients. Surgery is indicated for recurrent patellar dislocations and first-time patellar dislocations complicated by osteochondral injuries or major MPFL injuries with high functional demand. Return to sports requires painless full range of motion and symmetrical muscle strength in addition to focusing on sport-specific training. Home exercise and behavior modifications in ADLs are important to decrease the reoccurrence of patellar dislocation/subluxation.

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL), which is critical for both patellar stability and normal kinematics of the patellofemoral joint, is disrupted in most patellar dislocations. Consequently, MPFL reconstruction is advocated in recurrent dislocations to restore native patellar constraints. Fixation of the MPFL graft to the medial border of the patella can be achieved through various methods, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. We present a technique for MPFL fixation to the patella using all-soft suture anchors, theoretically decreasing the risk of patellar fracture and articular surface violation.

There are multiple etiologies for recurrent patellar instability. While patella alta, an elevated tibial tubercle trochlear groove distance, and prior lateral patellar dislocations with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) insufficiency have been shown to be risk factors for recurrent patellar instability, trochlear dysplasia can result in a significant impediment to normal patellar tracking. With the adequate identification of risk factors, appropriate surgical treatments can be individually tailored to the patient. We present a combined surgical technique of a sulcus-deepening trochleoplasty using knotless suture anchors for fixation, with MPFL reconstruction using gracilis autograft through short, oblique patellar bone tunnels to address severe trochlear dysplasia.

Background: Patellar dislocation is one of the most common knee injuries in the adolescent population. It is often combined with osteochondral fracture. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes between fixation and excision of osteochondral fractures not involving the bearing surface in adolescent patients with patellar dislocations. Methods: Patients who underwent surgery for osteochondral fracture following patellar dislocation in our institution from 2007 to 2014 were retrospectively evaluated. Visual analog scale (VAS) of pain and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form were used to assess knee pain and function at follow-up. Patient satisfaction was evaluated. Differences in the values of variables among groups were assessed using t-test if equal variance or Mann–Whitney U-test if not equal variance. The Pearson’s Chi-square test was applied for dichotomous variables if expected frequency was >5 or Fisher’s exact test was applied if not. A value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Forty-three patients were included, with the average age of 14.1 ± 2.3 (range, 9.0–17.0) years. Nineteen underwent fixation of osteochondral fractures and 24 did not. The average follow-up time was 28 ± 10 months. There was no significant difference in age, gender, follow-up time, causes of injury, times of dislocation, and location of osteochondral fracture between fixation and excision groups. The fixation group had a significantly longer surgery time (82 ± 14 min) and larger size of osteochondral fracture (2.30 ± 0.70 cm2) than the excision group (43 ± 10 min, 1.88 ± 0.62 cm2, respectively, t = 10.77, P < 0.01 and t = 0.84, P < 0.05). At the last follow-up, the average IKDC score in the fixation group (82.52 ± 8.71) was significantly lower than that in the excision group (89.51 ± 7.19, t= 2.65, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in VAS of pain and patients’ satisfaction. There were 7 (16%) patients with recurrent dislocation. Conclusion: Excision of osteochondral fractures has equivalent or better outcomes compared to fixation in adolescent patients with patellar dislocations when these fractures do not involve the bearing surface. Key words: Adolescent; Osteochondral Fracture; Patellar Dislocation

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) injuries are common in children and young adults. In patients with recurrent patellar dislocations with normal lower-extremity alignment, anatomic reconstruction of the MPFL has been shown to restore patellar stability. We describe a technique that creates an anatomic reconstruction using a dual docking technique into the patella. Our technique is simple and efficacious for reconstructing the MPFL without implant fixation in the patella, allowing a maximal bone-tendon interface for healing.

External torsion of the anterior tibial tubercle (TT), defined as external rotation around a craniocaudal axis with respect to the posterior femoral condylar plane, may induce patellar instability. To our knowledge no studies have focused on this parameter. The present study aimed to perform an MRI analysis of TT torsion. The study hypothesis was that TT torsion correlates with patellar instability and with 3 of its components: tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, axial engagement index of the patella (AEI), and patellar tilt.Four observers performed MRI measurements for 2 groups: 37 patellar instability patients (PI group) with history of at least 2 patellar dislocations, and 50 control patients with meniscal lesion but free from patellofemoral pathology. All measurements were taken from 2 axial slices with the posterior condylar plane as reference.The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.88. TT torsion correlated with patellar instability, with a mean 5.8̊ in controls and 17.9̊ in the PI group (P0.001). There were also excellent correlations between TT torsion and TT-TG distance, patellar tilt and patellar lateralization (measured by AEI), with correlation coefficients greater than 0.85.TT torsion is a reproducible measurement, with excellent ICC. It is significantly correlated with patellar instability, with a discrimination threshold of 11.5̊, and correlations with all 3 components of instability. These statistical correlations enable TT torsion to be added to the list of patellar instability factors. Further studies should determine its biomechanical role and assess the contribution of associating TT derotation to medialization or distalization procedures.III; case-control study.

Background: Patients with recurrent lateral patellar dislocations are often treated with reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). Purpose: To perform a systematic review to evaluate clinical outcomes and the risk of recurrent patellar dislocation after MPFL reconstruction (MPFLR) with autograft versus allograft. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: The authors conducted a search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify studies comparing outcomes of MPFLR with autograft versus allograft. The inclusion criteria were full-text studies that directly compared clinical outcomes and/or risk of recurrent patellar instability between patients undergoing MPFLR with autograft versus allograft. A quality assessment was performed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score, and risk-of-bias assessment was performed using the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies–of Interventions and the Cochrane Collaboration tools. Results: Seven studies (1 evidence level 2, 3 level 3, 3 level 4) that met inclusion criteria were identified and included a total of 150 patients who underwent MPFLR with autograft and 193 with MPFLR with allograft. One study found a significantly higher failure rate among patients with autograft, and another study found a trend toward a significantly higher failure rate among patients with autograft. One study demonstrated no significant difference between postoperative tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance (measured on magnetic resonance imaging scans) in failed versus successful grafts. One study found that patellar tilt angle improved significantly from preoperatively to postoperatively ( P < .001) but there was no difference between the groups. Kujala scores significantly improved for both autograft and allograft groups across studies. Two studies found significant differences in postoperative Kujala scores between the 2 groups, 1 of which found better scores in the allograft group ( P = .0032) and another in which scores were better in the autograft group ( P = .02). Conclusion: Patients undergoing MPFLR with either autograft or allograft can expect to experience improvement in clinical outcomes. Subjective outcomes improved to a similar degree in both groups. Graft failure was more frequently observed in patients with autograft. Allograft may be a better option for MPFLR owing to lower failure rate.

Background:The surgical management of traumatic patellar dislocations in adolescents is associated with a lower rate of recurrent dislocations compared with nonoperative care. However, the attendant cost of surgery and the quality-of-life benefit of a surgical treatment strategy are unclear.Purpose:To compare the cost-utility of 3 management strategies for acute first-time patellar dislocations in adolescents: (1) nonoperative treatment only, (2) initial nonoperative treatment with surgery only for recurrent dislocations, and (3) immediate surgery.Study Design:Economic and decision analysis; Level of evidence, 2.Methods:A 10-year state-transition Markov model was constructed to compare the cost-utility of the 3 index treatment protocols. Utilities used to define health states were derived from a telephone interview of 60 adolescents with a history of acute patellar dislocations. The probability of transition between each health state was informed by the available literature. Direct costs were estimated using a statewide ambulatory surgery database, and indirect costs were estimated based on parental lost productivity. Effectiveness was expressed in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The principal outcome measure was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER).Results:In the base case for our model, nonoperative treatment only was the least costly ($7300) but also the least effective (5.30 QALYs); initial nonoperative treatment with delayed surgery cost $10,500 for a 5.93 QALY benefit, while immediate surgical treatment cost $17,100 and provided 6.32 QALY benefits. Compared with nonoperative treatment only, initial nonoperative treatment with delayed surgery was associated with an ICER of $5100 per QALY. When immediate surgery was compared with a strategy of delayed surgery, immediate surgery provided incremental benefits at an ICER of $17,000 per QALY. The model was sensitive to the probability of surgical versus nonoperative treatment to achieve a full return to preinjury activity versus an intermediate lower state. When the probability of achieving a full return to preinjury activity with initial nonoperative treatment exceeds 47.5% (compared with 34.2% in the base case), then initial nonoperative treatment with delayed surgery is preferred to immediate surgery. Similarly, when the probability of achieving a full return to full preinjury activity with surgery falls below 51% (compared with 64% in the base case), then delayed surgery after initial nonoperative treatment is preferred.Conclusion:Immediate surgery and delayed surgical treatment are both cost-effective treatment options; however, immediate surgical treatment provides the highest QALY gains within a 10-year time horizon. Our model sensitivity analysis highlights the role of optimizing functional and quality-of-life benefits in the treatment of acute traumatic patellar dislocations. These findings have implications for clinical guidelines and policy decisions relating to adolescent patellar dislocations.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate subjective outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstructions. Fifty-four knees of 46 patients who received MPFL reconstruction for recurrent patellar dislocations were examined with a minimum follow-up of two years. To assess patient-based outcomes, the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Kujala score were assessed. The mean Kujala score was significantly improved from 64.6 ± 22.1 pre-operatively to 84.7 ± 11.8 post-operatively (P

Background Patellar dislocations account for two percent of all knee injuries with a 17% chance of re-dislocation. There are few validated scores specific to instability. One of these is the Norwich Patellar Instability Score. There has been limited assessment of the validity, floor-ceiling effect and responsiveness of the Norwich Patellar Instability (NPI) Score from an independent centre. The purpose of this paper is to address this limitation. Methods Data from 90 patients referred to a tertiary referral patellofemoral clinic were analysed. All routinely completed data including NPI Score, Kujala Patellofemoral Disorder Score, and demographic outcomes during appointments, up to 36 months following initial clinical assessment was analysed. Convergent validity was assessed by correlating outcomes of the Kujala Patellofemoral Disorder Score to the NPI Score. Effect size (ES) was determined between baseline to 12-month and 12 to 36-month assessments to determine responsiveness. Floor-ceiling effect was evaluated at baseline, 12-month and 12 to 36-month follow-up. Results NPI Score demonstrated good convergent validity to the Kujala Patellofemoral Disorder Score (p Conclusions The NPI Score is a valid and responsive outcome for people with recurrent patellar dislocation.

Adolescents with osteochondral loose bodies after a first-time patellar dislocation are most commonly treated with surgical intervention. However, the ideal method of managing a concurrent medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) disruption is still unknown. Recent evidence suggests high failure rates are associated with primary MPFL repair. The purpose of this Technical Note is to describe an alternative surgical technique for managing acute first-time patellar dislocations by using high-strength suture augmentation of the MPFL.

Accurate assessment of the locations of patellar avulsion fractures in acute patellar dislocations is clinically relevant for decision making for treatment. The study aim was to classify the locations of patellar avulsion fractures with a focus on the ligament attachments of medial stabilizing structures. Out of 131 first-time acute traumatic patellar dislocations, 61 patients had patellar fractures. Subsequently, 10 patients with isolated osteochondral fractures of the articular surface in the patella were excluded. Finally, 51 patients (34 females and 17 males, average age: 18.5 years, 95% CI 16.1–20.9) were included in the study cohort. Based on the locations of the patellar attachment, the patients were divided into three groups: the superior group [medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) attachment], inferior group [medial patellotibial ligament (MPTL)/medial patellomeniscal ligament (MPML) attachment], and mixed group. In the patellar avulsion group (51 patients), the superior group, mixed group, and inferior group contained 8/51 (16%), 12/51 (24%), and 31/51 (61%) patients, respectively. This study showed that 84% of the patellar avulsion fractures were located in the inferomedial patellar border, which consisted of MPTL/MPML attachments that were clearly different from the true “MPFL” attachment at the superomedial patellar border. In terms of the clinical relevance, the acute surgical repair of MPTL/MPML attachments in the inferomedial patellar border may not sufficiently control the patella if optimal management of the MPFL is not performed. IV.