Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Author Spotlight: A Novel 3D-Printed Titanium Implant for Minimally Invasive Treatment of Hip Dysplasia in Young Dogs
Published on: April 19, 2024
The patellofemoral joint: from dysplasia to dislocation
Stefano Zaffagnini1,2, Alberto Grassi1,2, Gianluca Zocco3
1Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Dipartimento Rizzoli Sicilia, Bagheria (PA), Italy.
Insights
Patellofemoral dysplasia, a key cause of knee instability, has an unclear origin and complex biomechanics. Personalized treatment is crucial due to the lack of universal guidelines for managing this challenging condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Radiology
Background:
- Patellofemoral dysplasia is a significant risk factor for patellofemoral joint instability.
- The etiology of patellofemoral dysplasia remains controversial, with debates on genetic versus developmental causes.
- Understanding biomechanical effects and risk factors is crucial for managing recurrent patellar dislocations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively evaluate radiographic, MRI, and CT parameters for assessing patellofemoral dysplasia.
- To guide clinicians in managing primary and recurrent patellar dislocations.
- To address the complex biomechanical behavior and controversial etiology of patellofemoral dysplasia.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive evaluation of radiographic, MRI, and CT parameters.
- Analysis of anatomical and demographic risk factors for recurrent dislocations.
- Review of biomechanical effects on patellar stability and surgical outcomes.
Main Results:
- Patellofemoral dysplasia significantly predisposes individuals to patellofemoral joint instability.
- Current understanding lacks consensus on etiology and universally accepted treatment guidelines.
- Personalized treatment approaches are necessary due to individual anatomical variations.
Conclusions:
- Patellofemoral dysplasia is a complex and challenging condition with an uncertain etiology.
- A thorough assessment using advanced imaging is vital for patient management.
- Tailored treatment strategies are essential for addressing the specific anatomical abnormalities causing symptoms.
Abstract:
Patellofemoral dysplasia is a major predisposing factor for instability of the patellofemoral joint. However, there is no consensus as to whether patellofemoral dysplasia is genetic in origin, caused by imbalanced forces producing maltracking and remodelling of the trochlea during infancy and growth, or due to other unknown and unexplored factors.The biomechanical effects of patellofemoral dysplasia on patellar stability and on surgical procedures have not been fully investigated. Also, different anatomical and demographic risk factors have been suggested, in an attempt to identify the recurrent dislocators. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation of all the radiographic, MRI and CT parameters can help the clinician to assess patients with primary and recurrent patellar dislocation and guide management.Patellofemoral dysplasia still represents an extremely challenging condition to manage. Its controversial aetiology and its complex biomechanical behaviour continue to pose more questions than answers to the research community, which reflects the lack of universally accepted guidelines for the correct treatment. However, due to the complexity of this condition, an extremely personalised approach should be reserved for each patient, in considering and addressing the anatomical abnormalities responsible for the symptoms. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160081. Originally published online at www.efortopenreviews.org.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
Knee Joint
A total of seven ligaments support the knee joint. The patellar ligament, which is also attached to the quadriceps femoris...
Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An...
Ankle Joint
Development of the Limb Synovial Joints
The mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into chondrocytes that form the hyaline cartilage, and later the cartilaginous model of the bone. This model further transforms into a bone. This process is known as endochondral ossification.
During development, the limbs...
Structural Joints: Cartilaginous Joints
There are two types of cartilaginous joints:
Synchondrosis
A synchondrosis ("joined by cartilage") is a cartilaginous joint where bones are connected by hyaline cartilage. Synchondrosis may be temporary...

