Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with lateral soft tissue release in adult patients with habitual patellar dislocation

PURPOSE: Habitual dislocation of the patella is a rare condition and a treatment plan has not yet been established. The purpose of this case report is to assess the effectiveness of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction for treating adults with habitual dislocation. METHODS: We performed MFPL reconstruction in two women with habitual patellar dislocation. Patient 1 was 39 and Patient 2 was 57 years old. Both patients frequently experienced giving way and received surgical treatments that involved extensive release of tight lateral soft tissue followed by medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using semitendinosus tendon. RESULTS: Follow-ups at 5 years (Patient 1) and 3 years (Patient 2) after operation confirmed no recurrent dislocation in either patient and significantly improved knee function. CONCLUSIONS: Although a longer-term follow-up is necessary, MPFL reconstruction combined with lateral soft tissue release seems a promising treatment for habitual dislocation of the patella in adults. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.