Medial patella retinaculum plasty for treatment of habitual patellar dislocation in adolescents

Purpose

The surgical technique, medial patellar retinaculum plasty, can almost restore both static and dynamic stability and verge on anatomical repair for the treatment of habitual patellar dislocation in adolescents.

Methods

In accordance with the injury patterns of the medial patellar retinaculum through knee MRI, we repaired different injury sites with this surgical procedure. We reviewed this technique in 16 patients with an average age of 15 years. Retrospective review of charts and radiographs immediately after the surgery up to the latest follow-up (range 12–36 months) was undertaken.

Results

All patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically over an average of 20.7 months. The recovery of knee mobility results were good. No recurrence of patellar instability has been found.

Conclusion

We think this could be a valid technique to treat habitual patellar dislocation in adolescents.