Medium-term results of the operative treatment of recurrent patellar dislocation by Insall proximal realignment

Between 1984 and 1991, 36 patients with the diagnosis of recurrent patellar dislocation were treated operatively using the proximal realignment procedure. Thirty patients were available for follow-up. The average follow-up period was 6.3 years (range 2–9.6 years). The average age at injury was 21.3 years with a predominance of female patients. At follow-up all knees were physically examined. The results were evaluated using the score of Larsen and Lauridsen as well as the Tegner score and subjective assessment. Radiographs from 19 patients (63%) were available for review. At follow-up one patient suffered from a recurrence of patellar dislocation. All patients had stable knee joints and a full range of motion. There was no statistically significant difference between pre- and postoperative sports activity level. Seven patients (23.3%) had excellent results, 12 patients (39.9%) good results and 1 a poor result using the Larsen and Lauridsen score. Subjective assessment revealed the operative result as very good, good or satisfactory in 90%. Patellofemoral osteoarthritis was seen in 7 of 19 patients (36.8%). With a proximal realignment procedure good clinical results can be achieved for recurrent patellar dislocation. Subjective satisfaction with this procedure is rated as good. It is successful in preventing redislocation. Received: 18 January 1998 Accepted: 28 August 1998