Lateral retinacular lengthening is a procedure that lengthens the lateral retinaculum by cutting and sliding the superficial layer over the deep layer to allow a more controlled release of tension.
The superficial layer of the lateral retinaculum is released.
At a lower level, the deep layer is also released, allowing the patella to un-tilt.
When the patella is in a good position the two layers are sutured together in the new position.
Controlled retinacular tensioning
The lateral retinacular lengthening procedure allows the surgeon to control the tension in the retinaculum, so that the patella is in a better position but the lateral retinaculum is still functioning as a guy rope.
Synonyms:
lateral lengthening, lateral retinaculum langthening
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CLINICAL PUBLICATIONS
Is lateral retinacular release still a valid surgical option? From release to lengthening. Sanchis-Alfonso V and Montesinos-Berry E. Ann Transl Med. 2015 Nov; 3(19): 301.
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Video embed courtesy of Dr Jack Farr