Managing and Avoiding Complications During Patellar Stabilization Surgery

In the surgical management of patellar instability, it is critical to identify and address the individualized pathoanatomy of the knee. This includes addressing the soft-tissue deficiency through medial patellofemoral complex reconstruction and addressing bony malalignment as it relates to patella alta and coronal and/or rotational abnormalities, commonly through tibial tuberosity osteotomy. For every surgical procedure that addresses each deficiency, there is a risk of complications. Therefore, careful assessment of the indications for concurrent procedures and proper technique are needed to minimize the risk of complications during patellar stabilization surgery.