Superior-lateral patella dislocation with rotation along its vertical axis

Patellar dislocations are common, but superior-lateral dislocation with vertical axis rotation is rare and challenging to reduce.

A woman in her 20s presented with left knee pain and deformity after minor trauma. Traditional reduction attempts failed due to a vertical rotational component. Reduction was achieved using a technique involving hip flexion, a modified varus-valgus force, and knee extension.

Emergency clinicians must recognize complex patellar dislocations and consider early orthopedic consultation to minimize complications.