Consensus guidelines for management of patellofemoral instability

The aim of this consensus process was to provide robust national guidelines to assist with decision making with regards to surgical management of patellofemoral instability.

A national group of surgeons, physiotherapists, basic scientists and a radiologist with expert experience in patellofemoral instability was convened. A formal consensus process was undertaken using validated methodology. They reviewed the existing literature, performed a group consensus meeting to develop recommendations and followed this with a wider consultation meeting with an open invitation for final ratification. The guidelines were reviewed and authorised by the BASK executive committee, followed by the British Orthopaedic Association prior to final publication.

The review of the literature confirmed a significant absence of an evidence base to guide clinicians in the surgical management of patellofemoral instability. The consensus process outlined guidance relating to diagnosis and clinical assessment, appropriate imaging modalities, recommendations for surgical options and appropriate post operative physiotherapy. Following wide invitation to contribute to the final document, 102 people responded. Twenty six of those provided additional comments which were blinded, discussed and included or excluded following further discussion amongst the working group.

Patellofemoral instability is a complex pathology with multiple surgical options available to those who decide surgery is indicated. In the absence of a strong evidence base, these guidelines aim to assist with that decision making process and will pave the way for more robust clinical trials in the future.