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Patellar Dislocations

Patella, or kneecap, dislocations can occur with extremes of knee pivoting and rotation. Generally this involves the patella slipping laterally, or to the outside of the knee. After the first dislocation, conservative measures are pursued including rest, bracing, physical therapy and anti-inflammatories. A severe dislocation causes disruption of the medial patellofemoral ligaments, which act to stabilize the patella. If this injury becomes recurrent and the patient has continued instability of the knee, arthroscopic surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament.

Recovery

After a MPFL reconstruction, the patient can expect to have restricted weight bearing and crutches for approximately 6 weeks. Patients can also expect to be in a knee brace for approximately 6 weeks.

All knee arthroscopy patients can expect to be involved in physical therapy after surgery to strengthen and condition their knee and return to sports in peak condition.