What is the medial patellar retinaculum?
The medial patellar retinaculum is a strand of connective tissue, reinforcement of the joint capsule, detached from the regional fascia between the tendon of the quadriceps muscle, the medial border of the patella, the medial femoral condyle and the trochlea of tibia (and tibial tuberosity in horses and cattle).
How long does it take for MPFL to heal?
For a first time dislocation, without loose bodies, non-surgical treatment with rehabilitation is recommended. Bracing the joint will allow the swelling to decrease and may help to stabilize the patella. Physical therapy is prescribed, and a full recovery can be expected within an 8-12 week period.
Is MPFL reconstruction major surgery?
No. MPFL reconstruction is performed as an outpatient surgery. You will arrive approximately 1.5 – 2 hours prior to your procedure. Typically, you will be able to return home about two hours after your surgery is over.
Does a torn medial patellofemoral tendon require surgery?
MPFL injuries typically occur during a forceful traumatic kneecap dislocation. This injury is most common among young, active females. Depending on the severity of an MPFL injury, treatment may involve surgical reconstruction, followed by physical therapy.
How bad is an MPFL tear?
It is a chronic state where the medial patellofemoral ligament does not function properly because of the injury, such as a knee dislocation, or sustained trauma. MPFL insufficiency or incompetent MPFL can lead to repeated patellar dislocations, pain, stiffness and limited range of motion.
Can MPFL heal without surgery?
Left untreated, an injured MPFL can heal on its own. However, when left alone, the ligament heals in a loosened, lengthened position. This causes instability that makes it easier for the patella to become dislocated again in the future.
How bad is MPFL surgery?
Popping or cracking in the knee after MPFL reconstruction is not always a bad sign. After reconstructive knee surgery, the knee is often swollen, and the quadriceps muscles can be weak and scarring also occurs. These factors can affect your knee and can lead to popping and cracking.
How successful is MPFL surgery?
Modern MPFL reconstruction is a well-described operative intervention which is successful in the vast majority of chronic patellar instability patients. Excellent functional results have been reported as high as 95%, and numerous studies have documented significant reduction in postoperative re-dislocation [18, 19].
How do you treat a MPFL tear?
Most first time MPFL injuries can be treated non-surgically with NSAIDs and immobilization. It’s then followed by physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee. Your physician may recommend surgery if the injury is more severe, or if there are small pieces of detached bone or cartilage in the knee.
How painful is MPFL surgery?
MPFL reconstruction is a painful procedure. Severe postoperative pain can inter- fere with active muscle control. Pain can also impede progress with range of motion (ROM).