The Utilization of Internet and Social Media to Determine Rates of Return-to-Play After Patellofemoral Stabilization...

Determination of return-to-play (RTP) following patellofemoral stabilization surgery can be challenging, as many young patients may not return for follow-up. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether publicly accessible athletic Web sites and databases can be used to determine RTP rates and assess performance following patellofemoral stabilization surgery. All patients who underwent medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction or repair between January 2017 and July 2024 at a single institution were screened. Inclusion criteria were patients under 21 years of age who underwent primary MPFL surgery. Patients were excluded if they had secondary procedures or lacked preoperative sport participation. Demographic data were confirmed via electronic medical records and used to search public sports databases (e.g., Hudl, MaxPreps, state/regional athletic sites). RTP was defined as being listed on a team roster following surgery. Pre- and postoperative performance statistics were recorded when available. Patients were each assigned a unique ID number, and data were deidentified for analysis. A total of 136 patients under 21 years of age underwent primary patellofemoral stabilization surgery within the search dates, 120 reconstructions and 16 repairs. Out of the 136 patients identified, 49 were male, 87 were female with a mean BMI of 25.7 ± 6.4 and a mean age of 15.6 ± 2.3 years. Preoperative sports participation was documented by 57 patients. RTP was confirmed in 30 patients (52.6%) through online team rosters. The majority (71.9%) of participation was identified through Hudl, MaxPreps, or regional/state athletic association databases. Furthermore, 12 (40%) of the returning athletes had available postoperative performance statistics, with most demonstrating similar or improved performance compared with preoperative levels. Social media and athletic databases represent a viable adjunct for tracking RTP following surgical treatment for patellofemoral instability in young athletes that are cost-effective and do not require patient follow-up or contact. These platforms allowed identification of over 50% of patients returning to sport, with many demonstrating competing at a similar or higher level than preoperatively.