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Update on the management of patellar instability
1Departments of Family Medicine and Orthopaedic Surgery, Division of Sports Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90404, USA. hgillespie@mednet.ucla.edu
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|September 12, 2012
Summary
Patellar instability, often occurring during sports, requires individualized treatment due to high recurrence rates. Management decisions for patellar dislocations depend on patient factors and diagnostic findings.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Patellar instability is a common issue, particularly in athletes, with frequent recurrences and persistent symptoms.
- Accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment are crucial for managing patellar dislocations effectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the complexities of patellar instability management.
- To highlight the importance of individualized treatment strategies based on patient-specific factors.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on patellar instability.
- Emphasis on physical examination and imaging modalities for diagnosis.
- Discussion of operative and nonoperative management options.
Main Results:
- First-time patellar dislocations predominantly occur during sports activities.
- Recurrence rates and ongoing symptoms are significant challenges.
- The medial patellofemoral ligament's role in patellar stability is increasingly recognized.
Conclusions:
- Treatment for patellar instability must be individualized, considering symptoms, trauma severity, patient compliance, anatomy, and activity goals.
- While surgical techniques are evolving, a definitive consensus on the optimal approach is lacking.
