Clinical and Radiological Outcomes After Isolated Double-Bundle Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Limited research exists on 5-year outcomes following isolated medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction.
• Midterm results of isolated double-bundle (DB) MPFL reconstruction are not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes at 5 years after isolated double-bundle MPFL reconstruction for recurrent patellar instability.
• To determine if functional improvements and radiological findings remain stable over the 5-year postoperative period.

Main Methods:

• A case series of 31 patients undergoing isolated DB MPFL reconstruction for patellar instability.
• Clinical assessments included Kujala, Lysholm, and Tegner scores preoperatively and at 6, 12, 24, and 60 months postoperatively.
• Radiographic assessments measured modified Insall-Salvati ratio, congruence angle, and lateral patellofemoral angle preoperatively and at 24 and 60 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in all clinical scores were observed by 2 years and maintained through 5 years postoperatively (P < .001).
• Radiographic parameters significantly improved immediately after surgery and remained stable at 5-year follow-up (P < .001).
• No patellar redislocations or fractures occurred in the study cohort.

Conclusions:

• Isolated double-bundle MPFL reconstruction demonstrates significant and sustained improvements in clinical and radiological outcomes at 5-year follow-up.
• This surgical technique is an effective treatment for patients suffering from patellar instability.
• The midterm results support the long-term efficacy of DB MPFL reconstruction.