Recurrent dislocation of the patella and the Goldthwait operation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanical Analysis

Background:

• Recurrent patellar dislocation is a debilitating condition.
• The Goldthwait operation is a surgical option for managing this instability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term outcomes of the Goldthwait operation for recurrent patellar dislocation.
• To identify potential aetiopathological factors contributing to outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A 10-year follow-up study of 17 patients who underwent the Goldthwait operation.
• Subjective and clinical assessments were performed.
• X-radiographs evaluated femoropatellar joint osteoarthritis.
• Computed tomography measured external extremity torsion.

Main Results:

• Excellent or good subjective and clinical findings were reported in 70% of patients.
• Radiographic evidence of femoropatellar osteoarthritis was present in 60% of patients.
• Increased external torsion of the affected extremity was identified as a potential factor.

Conclusions:

• The Goldthwait operation offers favorable short-to-medium term outcomes for recurrent patellar dislocation.
• Long-term follow-up reveals a high incidence of femoropatellar osteoarthritis.
• External limb torsion may play a role in the aetiopathology and outcomes.