Arthroscopic Lateral Retinacular-Lengthening Procedure

Anterior knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint that is often due to an excessively tight lateral retinaculum, which normally plays a role in patellar tracking and stabilization. Several etiologies underlie lateral soft-tissue tightness in the knee, including lateral patellar compression syndrome, patellofemoral arthritis, patellofemoral instability, and patellofemoral pain syndrome. Stretching the lateral retinaculum through conservative treatment may be helpful, but lateral retinacular lengthening may be indicated. Since this surgical procedure has classically been performed in an open fashion, the purpose of this Technical Note is to describe an arthroscopic technique designed to limit complications, improve patient outcomes, and reduce operative and recovery times.