Arthroscopic Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for Recurrent Patellar Dislocation: Short-term Clinical Results

Abstract The present study aimed to introduce a novel technique to reconstruct medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) via arthroscopy for recurrent patellar dislocation. A retrospective review of a prospectively collected registry was undertaken. A total of 34 patients (35 knees) who underwent arthroscopic reconstruction of MPFL from December 2017 to August 2019 were identified. Kujala score, Tegner score, Lyscholm score, patellar tilt, and congruence angle were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. The occurrences of patient satisfaction, complications, and recurrent dislocation were recorded. The cohort consisted of both genders equally, and the mean age was 21.0±7.8 years, the mean body mass index was 22.5±3.5, and the mean follow-up time was 21.8±5.6 months. The patellar tiltdecreased from 46.4±19.3° to 12.5±16.9° (P < 0.001), the congruence angle decreased from 46.4±19.3° to 12.5±16.9° (P < 0.001), Kujala score improved from 55.1±4 to 88.7±4.4 (P < 0.001); Tegner score improved from 1.3±0.4 to 3.7±1.1 (P < 0.001), and Lyscholm score improved from 55.5±3.9 to 89.1±4.8 (P < 0.001). Among them, 30 (88.2%) patients fully recovered to normal pain-free daily life, 24 patients (70.6%) returned to sports, 32 patients were satisfied with surgery, and no redislocations were encountered. MPFL reconstruction via arthroscopy improves the knee joint function in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation and is a safe and effective surgical treatment for recurrent patellar dislocation.