Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Using Achilles Tendon Allograft With Bone Block

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Recurrent patellar instability frequently causes medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) tears.
• Various MPFL reconstruction techniques are available, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel technique for MPFL reconstruction utilizing Achilles tendon allograft with a bone block.
• To highlight the benefits of this specific surgical approach for restoring patellar stability.

Main Methods:

• The technique involves MPFL reconstruction using Achilles tendon allograft with a bone block.
• Key procedural steps include bone-to-bone healing in the femoral tunnel and fanning the graft for broad coverage.
• Graft tensioning is performed with direct visualization before patellar fixation.

Main Results:

• The described method facilitates bone-to-bone healing within the femoral tunnel.
• It allows for accurate graft and tunnel length determination by docking the bone block.
• The technique provides broad coverage of the medial patellar ridge and avoids patellar drilling, reducing risks of cartilage injury and fracture.

Conclusions:

• This Achilles tendon allograft technique offers a reliable method for MPFL reconstruction.
• It presents several advantages over existing methods, including improved healing, accurate tensioning, and reduced patellar complications.