Functional Evaluation after Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction in Athletes

Objective  The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical results, functional outcomes, and risk factors after anatomic reconstructions using knee flexor grafts in athletes. Methods  The authors followed-up 32 patients and 34 knees for 1 year in a prospective design case series evaluating pre- and postoperative functional scores (Kujala and Lysholm) and associated risk factors. Results  All of the 32 patients had a significant increase of the Lysholm and Kujala scores. Patients with < 5 preoperative dislocations had a better score on the Lysholm and Kujala scales. The mean preoperative Lysholm score was 62.8, and the mean postoperative score was 94.3. The mean preoperative Kujala score was 63.0, and the mean postoperative score was 94.0. Conclusion  Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with hamstring graft in athletes with patellar instability improved clinical and functional scores. The bone drilling through the patella and the positioning of the femoral tunnel should be judiciously performed.