Patterns of Associated Knee Ligament and Chondral Injuries in First-Time Traumatic Patellar Dislocation: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• First-time acute traumatic patellar dislocation can mask significant associated knee injuries.
• Management without Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) risks missed diagnoses of ligamentous and cartilaginous damage.
• Understanding the incidence of these associated injuries is vital for patient counseling and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of associated ligamentous and cartilaginous injuries in patients with first-time traumatic patellar dislocation.
• To highlight the importance of MRI in diagnosing these associated injuries.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 61 patients aged 16-45 with first-time traumatic lateral patellar dislocation.
• Analysis of knee MRI scans reviewed by consultant radiologist and orthopaedic knee specialist.
• Data collected from hospital Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).

Main Results:

• Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) tear or rupture occurred in 95% of cases.
• Associated injuries included meniscal tears (8.2%), MCL injuries (18%), osteochondral injuries (27.9%), and ACL injury (1.6%).
• Mean patient age was 25 years, with 73.8% being male.

Conclusions:

• First-time traumatic patellar dislocations frequently involve associated chondral and ligamentous injuries.
• MRI is essential for comprehensive diagnosis, particularly in active young patients.
• Timely diagnosis and management of associated injuries can prevent persistent knee symptoms.