An MPFL Reconstruction repairs a torn medial patellofemoral ligament at the side of the patella.
Page updated October 2023 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
![torn MPFL](/sites/default/files/users/user1/torn_mpfl.jpg)
![MPFL reconstruction](/sites/default/files/users/user1/recon_mpfl3.jpg)
MPFL reconstruction
MPFL reconstruction (MPFL-R) aims to improve patellar stability after the ligament has become torn. The ligament may be torn during a dislocation of the patella.
A variety of natural and synthetic materials have been used for such reconstructions, but the jury seems to be still out on which is best. Graft materials may include using either one of the hamstrings tendons, the superficial quadriceps tendon, the adductor tendon, an allograft or a synthetic graft.
Fixation options include suture anchors, bone tunnels or soft tissue suture fixations.
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Patients discuss ligament reconstruction versus tibial tubercle osteotomy
Peer-reviewed papers
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Quote:
"...injury to the MPFL occurs with a rate between 94-100% following a patellar dislocation. Traumatic lesions to this ligament, if not treated, can lead to recurring dislocation in 14-44% of cases, osteochondral lesions and, eventually, to early osteoarthritis." But "...every technique has its complications...which might be affected by possible misdiagnosed predisposing conditions and, especially, by technical errors."
Citation: Dall'Oca C, Elena N, Lunardelli E, Ulgelmo M, Magnan B. MPFL reconstruction: indications and results. Acta Biomed. 2020 May 30;91(4-S):128-135. doi: 10.23750/abm.v91i4-S.9669. PMID: 32555079; PMCID: PMC7944812.