Lateral patellofemoral ligament reconstruction

Abstract Medial dislocation of the patella is a disabling condition; there are several reports in the literature describing this condition and its association with failed lateral retinacular release. The diagnosis and treatment of medial subluxation of the patella may be difficult. Direct repair or imbrication of the lateral retinaculum provides initial stability but a noticeable increase in medial excursion usually reappears. In this article, we describe a simple and reproducible technique to reconstruct the lateral patellofemoral ligament with autogenous tissue that is based on the basic principles of all ligament reconstruction. Reconstruction of the lateral patellofemoral ligament is useful in eliminating the symptoms related to medial instability of the patella after failed lateral retinacular release; however, it must be considered a salvage procedure because it does not address the pathomechanics that led to the initial patellofemoral symptoms.