[Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with gracilis autograft for patellar instability]

We describe a technique for patellar stabilization by reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament with the gracilis tendon. The tendon is anchored posteriorly on the soft tissue of the medial femoral epicondyle and anteriorly on the medial border of the patella. The plasty is completed by suture of the medial patellar wing. Inferior or medial transposition of the tibial tubercle may be associated. We have used this technique since 1995 for 145 knees with patellar instability. The small incisions have the advantages of minimally invasive surgery, particularly for the postoperative period and the cosmetic effect.