Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Anatomy

The medial patellofemoral ligament is a band of tissue that extends from the inside of the lower part of the thigh bone ( femur )  to the superior aspect of the patella ( knee cap ) . It is a ligament that stabilizes the patella and helps in preventing dislocation of the knee cap .

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Damage

The medial patellofemoral ligament can rupture or get damaged when there the knee cap moves out of its position or dislocates towards the lateral ( outer side ) of the knee . Dislocation can be caused by a direct blow to the knee, twisting injury to the lower leg, strong muscle contraction, or due to a congenital abnormality such as shallow or malformed joint surfaces.

What is Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction?

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is a surgical procedure indicated for patellar instability. The basic principle of the operation is to create a sling to stabilise the knee cap . Most commonly a tendon is used as a graft to create the sling .The sling anchors the knee cap to the thigh bone, stabilising it, and preventing it from moving out of position or dislocating.

Postoperative Care after Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

You will see a physiotherapist and will require rehabilitation exercises .