Fully arthroscopic stabilization of the patella

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Patellofemoral instability, including acute and recurrent patellar luxation and subluxation, affects adolescents and young adults.
• Current treatment options for patellar instability may involve open or arthroscopic procedures.
• Patellar maltracking can lead to significant pain and functional limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, fully arthroscopic surgical technique for treating various forms of patellofemoral instability.
• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of this arthroscopic procedure in a cohort of young patients.

Main Methods:

• A minimally invasive arthroscopic technique involving plication of the medial patellar retinaculum and release of the lateral patellar retinaculum was performed.
• The procedure was conducted on 17 patients (6 male, 11 female) aged 14–27 years.
• Indications included patellar instability, acute patellar luxation, and recurrent patellar luxation.

Main Results:

• Follow-up ranged from 12 to 26 months post-surgery.
• Excellent outcomes were reported, with no instances of recurrent subluxation or luxation observed.
• The arthroscopic technique demonstrated successful management of patellar instability.

Conclusions:

• The described fully arthroscopic technique is a valuable and effective treatment for patellar maltracking and instability.
• This procedure offers a promising solution for acute and recurrent patellar luxation, particularly in the adolescent and young adult population.
• The minimally invasive nature of the arthroscopic approach may offer advantages for recovery and patient outcomes.