[Clinical and radiologic results of surgically treated patellar dislocation]

In this retrospective study 72 patients were followed up clinically and radiologically after surgical treatment for dislocation of the patella. The period of observation varied between 13 and 76 months, with an average of 32 months. Acute traumatic dislocation of the patella was only rarely encountered (n = 6 [8%]). Primary dislocation occurred most frequently during the second and third decades of life. Chondral and osteochondral fractures were fairly frequent (n = 24 [33%]). Additional injuries involved the anterior cruciate ligament, the medial collateral ligament and the menisci. At clinical examination 32 patients (44%) could be assessed as "very good" and "good" (classification of Larsen and Lauridsen). Redislocation occurred in 12 patients (16.7%). The radiological condition of the patella and that of the trochlea femoris were assessed in terms of the classification of Wiberg and Baumgartl and of Hepp, respectively. The condylar-joint angle (Brattström) and the condylar depth index (Ficat and Bizou) were also evaluated.