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An all-arthroscopic soft-tissue balancing technique for lateral patellar instability.
1New York Orthopaedic Hospital, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, New York, U.S.A. c.ahmad@worldnet.att.net.
Summary
This study introduces an arthroscopic technique for lateral patellar instability, avoiding open surgery. It balances soft tissues by releasing the lateral retinaculum and medially imbricating tissues for improved patellar alignment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Arthroscopy
Background:
- Lateral patellar instability is commonly treated with open medial soft tissue imbrication.
- Open procedures can lead to significant morbidity and prolonged recovery.
- There is a need for minimally invasive techniques to address this condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel, entirely arthroscopic technique for correcting lateral patellar instability.
- To describe the surgical steps involved in arthroscopic soft tissue balancing for patellar realignment.
Main Methods:
- A lateral retinacular release was performed arthroscopically.
- Medial soft tissues were imbricated using arthroscopic suture passing and knot tying.
- The procedure was performed entirely arthroscopically, avoiding open incisions.
Main Results:
- The described technique allows for patellar realignment through arthroscopic soft tissue balancing.
- This arthroscopic approach potentially reduces the invasiveness of treating lateral patellar instability.
Conclusions:
- Arthroscopic management of lateral patellar instability is feasible.
- This technique offers a minimally invasive alternative to open imbrication procedures for patellar realignment.