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Update on Patellar Instability

Abstract

Patellar instability is a multifactorial clinical condition that affects a significant number of patients and occurs due to morphological variations of the joint and patellofemoral alignment. The present literature review study aimed to identify and summarize current concepts on patellar instability, in relation to associated risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and the benefits and risks of conservative and surgical treatments. For this purpose, a search was conducted in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE (via Pubmed), LILACS and Cochrane Library. It is concluded that the accurate diagnosis depends on the detailed clinical evaluation, including the history and possible individual risk factors, as well as imaging exams. The initial treatment of patellar instability is still controversial, and requires the combination of conservative and surgical interventions, taking into consideration both soft tissues and bone structures, the latter being the most common reason for choosing surgical treatment, especially lateral patellar instability.

Keywords
patella; patellofemoral joint; joint instability; patellar dislocation

Resumo

A instabilidade patelar é uma condição clínica multifatorial, que acomete um número expressivo de pacientes, ocorrendo devido a variações anatómicas, morfológicas da articulação e do alinhamento patelofemoral. O presente estudo de revisão e atualização da literatura teve como objetivos identificar e sumarizar os conceitos atuais sobre instabilidade patelar em relação aos fatores de risco associados, os critérios diagnósticos e os benefícios e riscos dos tratamentos conservador e cirúrgico. Para tanto, foi realizado um levantamento nas bases de dados eletrónicas MEDLINE (via Pubmed), LILACS e Cochrane Library. Conclui-se que o diagnóstico preciso depende da avaliação clínica detalhada, incluindo o histórico e possíveis fatores de risco individuais, além de exames de imagem. O tratamento inicial da instabilidade patelar é ainda controverso, e requer a combinação de intervenções conservadoras e cirúrgicas, levando em consideração tanto os tecidos moles quanto as estruturas ósseas, sendo estas últimas a razão mais comum para a escolha do tratamento cirúrgico, principalmente instabilidade patelar lateral.

Palavras-chave
patela; articulação patelofemoral; instabilidade articular; luxação patelar

Introduction

Patellar instability is a common and disabling clinical condition that mainly affects young individuals. Anatomical factors such as trochlear dysplasia, patellar morphology, tibial tuberosity localization, and soft tissue rupture have been associated with primary dislocation and recurrent secondary instability.11 Smith TO,Davies L, Toms AP, Hing CB, Donell ST. The reliability and validity of radiological assessment for patellar instability. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Skeletal Radiol 2011;40 (04):399–414 Patellofemoral dislocation is a disabling lesion that represents ∼ 2 to 3% of all traumatic knee injuries and affects 5 to 43 cases per 100,000 young people and adolescents per year.22 Liu JN, Steinhaus ME, Kalbian IL, et al. Patellar InstabilityManagement: A Survey of the International Patellofemoral Study Group. Am J Sports Med 2018;46(13):3299–3306

3 Fithian DC, Paxton EW, Stone ML, et al. Epidemiology and natural history of acute patellar dislocation. Am J Sports Med 2004;32 (05):1114–1121
-44 Smith TO, Donell S, Song F, Hing CB. Surgical versus non-surgical interventions for treating patellar dislocation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015;(02):CD008106 This condition can cause significant morbidity since it is associated with high recurrence rates, lesions and fractures of the patellofemoral cartilage, injury of adjacent soft tissues, which result in pain, decreased function and possible development of patellofemoral arthrosis.22 Liu JN, Steinhaus ME, Kalbian IL, et al. Patellar InstabilityManagement: A Survey of the International Patellofemoral Study Group. Am J Sports Med 2018;46(13):3299–3306,55 Arendt EA, Fithian DC, Cohen E. Current concepts of lateral patella dislocation. Clin Sports Med 2002;21(03):499–519

Patellofemoral joint instability is multifactorial, the presence of predisposing factors such as femoral anteversion, external tibial torsion, internal femoral torsion, geno valgus, patellar dysplasia, trochlear dysplasia, high patella, oblique medial vastus atrophy, flat foot, and generalized hyperlaxity may influence the occurrence of recurrent dislocations.66 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Clin Sports Med 2014;33 (03):461–476,77 Franco BAFM, Sadigursky D, Daltro GC. Patellar position in patients with patellofemoral syndrome as characterized by anatomo- radiographic study. Rev Bras Ortop 2018;53(04):410–414

Patellar dislocations are mainly lateral, and the main mechanism of injury during physical activity is the internal rotation of the femur with the foot planted, valgus component and a sudden lateral displacement of the patella, or a direct impact that displaces the patella from the joint. However, they can also occur after low-energy trauma in people with predisposing factors.88 Saccomanno MF, Sircana G, Fodale M, Donati F,Milano G. Surgical versus conservative treatment of primary patellar dislocation. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2016;40(11): 2277–2287,99 Sillanpää P, Mattila VM, Iivonen T, Visuri T, Pihlajamäki H. Incidence and risk factors of acute traumatic primary patellar dislocation. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008;40(04):606–611 About 93% of traumatic patellar dislocations occur during flexion with valgus movement of the knee without direct contact, while medial dislocations are exclusively traumatic or iatrogenic.99 Sillanpää P, Mattila VM, Iivonen T, Visuri T, Pihlajamäki H. Incidence and risk factors of acute traumatic primary patellar dislocation. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008;40(04):606–611

The clinical picture consists of complaints of feeling of falsehood, severe pain and secondary effusion. According to Sillanpaa et al.,99 Sillanpää P, Mattila VM, Iivonen T, Visuri T, Pihlajamäki H. Incidence and risk factors of acute traumatic primary patellar dislocation. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008;40(04):606–611 in 2008, conditions such as hemarthrosis, medial facet fracture and medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) injury occur in almost all patients after traumatic patellar dislocation, in addition, osteochondral fracture can be observed in 25% of the cases.

Treatment of acute primary patellar dislocation aims to reduce the risk of recurrence or painful subluxation and prevent secondary osteoarthrosis.55 Arendt EA, Fithian DC, Cohen E. Current concepts of lateral patella dislocation. Clin Sports Med 2002;21(03):499–519 Historically, the initial therapeutic choice is conservative for patients who have had an episode of acute dislocation, with the exception of cases of associated osteochondral lesions or fractures, where early surgical treatment is indicated.1010 Panni AS, Vasso M, Cerciello S. Acute patellar dislocation.What to do? Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2013;21(02):275–278 According to studies of the natural history of the disease, 50 to 70% of patients are free of recurrent dislocations after conservative treatment.1111 Cofield RH, Bryan RS. Acute dislocation of the patella: results of conservative treatment. J Trauma 1977;17(07):526–531

12 Hawkins RJ, Bell RH, Anisette G. Acute patellar dislocations. The natural history. Am J Sports Med 1986;14(02):117–120

13 Mäenpää H, Huhtala H, Lehto MU. Recurrence after patellar dislocation. Redislocation in 37/75 patients followed for 6-24 years. Acta Orthop Scand 1997;68(05):424–426
-1414 Mäenpää H, Lehto MU. Patellar dislocation. The long-term results of nonoperative management in 100 patients. Am J Sports Med 1997;25(02):213–217 On the other hand, some recent publications suggest high rates of recurrent instability for both operated and nonoperated patients.22 Liu JN, Steinhaus ME, Kalbian IL, et al. Patellar InstabilityManagement: A Survey of the International Patellofemoral Study Group. Am J Sports Med 2018;46(13):3299–3306,1515 Weber AE, Nathani A, Dines JS, et al. An Algorithmic Approach to the Management of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016;98(05):417–427

The long-term consequences of primary acute patellar dislocation include recurrent dislocations, patellar instability, cartilage injury, pain, limitation of activities of daily living, and secondary patellofemoral osteoarthrosis, with a six-fold increased risk of dislocation recurrence in patients with a history of contralateral patellar dislocation. In cases where ≥ 2 episodes of dislocation occur, the risk of recurrence is ∼ 50% if there was an injury to the MPFL.99 Sillanpää P, Mattila VM, Iivonen T, Visuri T, Pihlajamäki H. Incidence and risk factors of acute traumatic primary patellar dislocation. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008;40(04):606–611,1616 Duthon VB. Acute traumatic patellar dislocation. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 2015;101(01):S59–S67 However, recurrence rates and residual symptoms of instability after conservative treatment consequently lead to surgical indication. Despite the high incidence rates of patellofemoral instability, the management of patients with this condition is complex and remains variable in the literature.22 Liu JN, Steinhaus ME, Kalbian IL, et al. Patellar InstabilityManagement: A Survey of the International Patellofemoral Study Group. Am J Sports Med 2018;46(13):3299–3306,88 Saccomanno MF, Sircana G, Fodale M, Donati F,Milano G. Surgical versus conservative treatment of primary patellar dislocation. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2016;40(11): 2277–2287 Thus, the present study of review and updating of the literature aimed to identify and summarize the current concepts about patellar instability in relation to the associated risk factors, diagnostic criteria and the benefits and risks of conservative and surgical treatments. A survey was conducted in the electronic databases: MEDLINE (via Pubmed), LILACS and Cochrane Library, and included only studies with good methodological quality and high level of evidence such as systematic reviews, randomized clinical trials and prospective observational studies. The keywords (MeSH terms) used in the strategies were Patella or Patellar Dislocation, adapted for each database searched.

Risk Factors

Studies report that > 60% of patellar dislocations occur during physical activity. It is estimated that women have an approximate risk 33% higher than men,33 Fithian DC, Paxton EW, Stone ML, et al. Epidemiology and natural history of acute patellar dislocation. Am J Sports Med 2004;32 (05):1114–1121,1717 Seitlinger G, Ladenhauf HN, Wierer G. What is the chance that a patella dislocation will happen a second time: update on the natural history of a first time patella dislocation in the adolescent. Curr Opin Pediatr 2018;30(01):65–70,1818 Arendt EA, England K, Agel J, Tompkins MA. An analysis of knee anatomic imaging factors associated with primary lateral patellar dislocations. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2017;25(10): 3099–3107 although some studies do not find differences between genders for the occurrence of primary dislocation.55 Arendt EA, Fithian DC, Cohen E. Current concepts of lateral patella dislocation. Clin Sports Med 2002;21(03):499–519,1818 Arendt EA, England K, Agel J, Tompkins MA. An analysis of knee anatomic imaging factors associated with primary lateral patellar dislocations. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2017;25(10): 3099–3107,1919 Askenberger M, Janarv PM, Finnbogason T, Arendt EA. Morphology and Anatomic Patellar Instability Risk Factors in First-Time Traumatic Lateral Patellar Dislocations: A Prospective Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in Skeletally Immature Children. Am J Sports Med 2017;45(01):50–58 Age is another relevant risk factor, since most acute patellar dislocations occur in adolescents and young adults, especially between 10 and 17 years old.33 Fithian DC, Paxton EW, Stone ML, et al. Epidemiology and natural history of acute patellar dislocation. Am J Sports Med 2004;32 (05):1114–1121,1717 Seitlinger G, Ladenhauf HN, Wierer G. What is the chance that a patella dislocation will happen a second time: update on the natural history of a first time patella dislocation in the adolescent. Curr Opin Pediatr 2018;30(01):65–70

Anatomical and structural risk factors for patellar instability were identified, such as: high patella, abnormal patellar morphology, trochlear dysplasia, patellar hypermobility, variations in the anatomy of the MPFL, generalized ligament hyperlaxity, hypoplasia of the oblique medial vastus, increased Q-angle, increased femoral anteversion, valgus alignment, and external tibial rotation.77 Franco BAFM, Sadigursky D, Daltro GC. Patellar position in patients with patellofemoral syndrome as characterized by anatomo- radiographic study. Rev Bras Ortop 2018;53(04):410–414,88 Saccomanno MF, Sircana G, Fodale M, Donati F,Milano G. Surgical versus conservative treatment of primary patellar dislocation. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2016;40(11): 2277–2287,2020 Balcarek P, Oberthür S, Hopfensitz S, et al. Which patellae are likely to redislocate? Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2014; 22(10):2308–2314

Dejour et al.,2121 Dejour H, Walch G, Nove-Josserand L, Guier C. Factors of patellar instability: an anatomic radiographic study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 1994;2(01):19–26 in 1994, considered four factors predisposing to dislocation: 1) trochlear dysplasia; 2) lateral inclination of the patella, interpreted as dysplasia of the vastus oblique medial; 3) high patella and 4) lateralization of the anterior tuberosity of the tibia (ATT) (increased Q angle). A prospective observational study analyzed the patellofemoral morphology in skeletally immature children with and without primary patellar dislocation and found significant differences in measurements related to trochlear dysplasia such as greater groove angle and lower trochlear depth (< 3 mm), which result in increased central condylar height.1919 Askenberger M, Janarv PM, Finnbogason T, Arendt EA. Morphology and Anatomic Patellar Instability Risk Factors in First-Time Traumatic Lateral Patellar Dislocations: A Prospective Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in Skeletally Immature Children. Am J Sports Med 2017;45(01):50–58 Another prospective study1818 Arendt EA, England K, Agel J, Tompkins MA. An analysis of knee anatomic imaging factors associated with primary lateral patellar dislocations. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2017;25(10): 3099–3107 analyzed the same risk factors in children and adults and showed similar findings, that is, trochlear dysplasia and excessive patellar height were the most common factors, with no differences in skeletal maturity. The combination of two or more associated risk factors is present in most patients who progress to primary patellar dislocation.33 Fithian DC, Paxton EW, Stone ML, et al. Epidemiology and natural history of acute patellar dislocation. Am J Sports Med 2004;32 (05):1114–1121 According to Santos Neto et al.,2222 Santos Netto A, Brito MB, Severino FR, et al. Estudo da articulação patelofemoral por ressonância magnética: a variação da morfologia do ligamento patelofemoral medial. Rev Bras Ortop 2012;47 (02):204–209 in 2012, the morphology of the MPFL varies with the interepicondylar distance and the lateral condyle, and with the age of the patient.

The recurrence of patellar dislocation was investigated by prospective cohort studies that showed a total cumulative incidence of ipsilateral recurrence between 362323 Christensen TC, Sanders TL, Pareek A, Mohan R, Dahm DL, Krych AJ. Risk Factors and Time to Recurrent Ipsilateral and Contralateral Patellar Dislocations. Am J Sports Med 2017;45(09): 2105–2110 and 54%2424 Sanders TL, Pareek A, Hewett TE, Stuart MJ, Dahm DL, Krych AJ. High rate of recurrent patellar dislocation in skeletally immature patients: a long-term population-based study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2018;26(04):1037–1043 after 15 to 20 years, being significantly higher in patients < 18 years old at the first dislocation, presence of trochlea dysplasia, high patella and greater distance between the tibia tuberosity and the trochlear sulcus (TA-GT). Most events occurred within 5 years of the initial injury. Furthermore, approximately half of the patients who suffered lateral patellar dislocation present symptoms and radiographic alterations compatible with osteoarthrosis on average 25 years after the injury.2525 Sanders TL, Pareek A, Johnson NR, Stuart MJ, Dahm DL, Krych AJ. Patellofemoral Arthritis After Lateral Patellar Dislocation: A Matched Population-Based Analysis. Am J Sports Med 2017;45 (05):1012–1017 Thus, failures in the treatment of patellar dislocation can lead to recurrent patellar instability, persistent knee pain, and even patellofemoral osteoarthrosis.2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1

Diagnostic Criteria

Although physical examination is the main diagnostic tool for patellar instability, imaging exams are used to assist in the clinical decision-making and differential diagnosis, and include conventional radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (US).11 Smith TO,Davies L, Toms AP, Hing CB, Donell ST. The reliability and validity of radiological assessment for patellar instability. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Skeletal Radiol 2011;40 (04):399–414,2727 Souza PME, Gabetto MSS, Serrão MG, Vieira LAM, Oliveira DC. Patellofemoral Instability: Evaluation by Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Rev Bras Ortop 2013;48(02):159–164 Radiological evaluation is often the first imaging examination to be requested, including incidences: a) anteroposterior, to evaluate the joint alignment and symmetry of bone structures; b) absolute profile at 30 degrees of flexion, which allows the measurement of patellar height from the relationship between the patella and tibia using indices such as: Insall-Salvatti,2828 Insall J, Salvati E. Patella position in the normal knee joint. Radiology 1971;101(01):101–104 Blackburne-Peel2929 Blackburne JS, Peel TE. A new method of measuring patellar height. J Bone Joint Surg Br 1977;59(02):241–242 and Caton-Deschamps,3030 Caton J. [Method of measuring the height of the patella]. Acta Orthop Belg 1989;55(03):385–386 in addition to the measurement of the plateau-patella angle 3131 Portner O, Pakzad H. The evaluation of patellar height: a simple method. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2011;93(01):73–80; (c) axial, to evaluate the angle of the trochlear groove and the shape and positioning (inclination) of the patella.

A systematic review showed that radiographic measurement of patellar height using the Insall-Salvatti and Caton-Deschamps methods, and MRI by the Insall-Salvatti method, presented good validity, with significant difference between samples of healthy patients and of those with patellar instability (p < 0.0001). The measurement of the TA-GT distance evaluated by CT also demonstrated good intra- and interexaminer validity. The measurements of patellar inclination (patellar tilt) and the angles of the trochlear and lateral patellar groove also showed good discrimination validity between individuals with patellar instability and the control group (p < 0.0001). For the measurements of the congruence angle and height of the lateral and medial condyles, there was low validity beyond the substantial heterogeneity among the analyzed studies. Finally, there is insufficient evidence to determine the reliability and validity of patellar height using the Blackburne-Peel method, the angle of congruence by MRI, lateral patellar displacement by MRI, femoral anteversion by CT, the depth of the trolley, the crossing signal and Wiberg patellar classification. There was low reliability for the evaluation of trochlear dysplasia and groove angle by US.11 Smith TO,Davies L, Toms AP, Hing CB, Donell ST. The reliability and validity of radiological assessment for patellar instability. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Skeletal Radiol 2011;40 (04):399–414,3232 Haj-Mirzaian A, Thawait GK, TanakaMJ, Demehri S. Diagnosis and Characterization of Patellofemoral Instability: Reviewof Available Imaging Modalities. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev 2017;25(02):64–71

Treatment

Conservative treatment

The treatment of patellar instability and dislocation remains a challenge for surgeons due to the complexity of the procedures and the unsatisfactory results. Historically, conservative treatment (pharmacological, physiotherapy and immobilization) has been considered as the first option for primary patellar dislocations, except in the presence of osteochondral fracture 1515 Weber AE, Nathani A, Dines JS, et al. An Algorithmic Approach to the Management of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016;98(05):417–427 and MPFL avulsion.3333 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Orthop Clin North Am 2015; 46(01):147–157 However, there are still controversies in the literature regarding the indication for conservative or surgical treatment. Some studies have found high recurrence rates and residual symptoms of instability associated with conservative treatment (up to 44%),1313 Mäenpää H, Huhtala H, Lehto MU. Recurrence after patellar dislocation. Redislocation in 37/75 patients followed for 6-24 years. Acta Orthop Scand 1997;68(05):424–426,1414 Mäenpää H, Lehto MU. Patellar dislocation. The long-term results of nonoperative management in 100 patients. Am J Sports Med 1997;25(02):213–217,2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1,3434 Lewallen LW, McIntosh AL, Dahm DL. Predictors of recurrent instability after acute patellofemoral dislocation in pediatric and adolescent patients. Am J Sports Med 2013;41(03):575–581 and for this reason, surgical treatment has been recommended, but also has high recurrence rates (10 to 35%).2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1

A Cochrane44 Smith TO, Donell S, Song F, Hing CB. Surgical versus non-surgical interventions for treating patellar dislocation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015;(02):CD008106 systematic review published in 2015 showed that although there is some evidence to support surgical treatment in primary patellar dislocation, the quality of evidence is very low due to the high risk of bias and inaccuracy in the effect estimates of the included studies. Therefore, new randomized clinical trials of better methodological quality have been recommended. Table 1-44 Smith TO, Donell S, Song F, Hing CB. Surgical versus non-surgical interventions for treating patellar dislocation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015;(02):CD008106,88 Saccomanno MF, Sircana G, Fodale M, Donati F,Milano G. Surgical versus conservative treatment of primary patellar dislocation. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2016;40(11): 2277–2287,2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1,3535 Yang F, Guo W, Wang Q, et al. Surgical versus nonsurgical treatment of primary acute patellar dislocation: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019;98(29): e16338,3636 Longo UG, Ciuffreda M, Locher J, Berton A, Salvatore G, Denaro V. Treatment of Primary Acute Patellar Dislocation: Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis of the Literature. Clin J Sport Med 2017;27(06):511–523 shows the results of systematic reviews with meta-analysis comparing conservative with surgical treatment for primary patellar dislocation.

Table 1
Results of systematic reviews with meta-analysis on conservative versus surgical treatment for primary patellar dislocation

In general, the goals of conservative treatment after primary dislocation of the patella are to reduce swelling, strengthen the knee muscles and improve joint range of motion.3333 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Orthop Clin North Am 2015; 46(01):147–157 Physiotherapy for patients with patellar instability should focus on strengthening the closed kinetic chain of the quadriceps and gluteus muscles, and sensory-motor training. Closed kinetic chain exercises involving the gluteal musculature tend to force the external rotation of the femur and consequently decrease the Q angle during the gait cycle. Strengthening the quadriceps musculature with emphasis on the vastus oblique medial (VOM) helps in the proper positioning of the patella in the trochlear groove.3333 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Orthop Clin North Am 2015; 46(01):147–157,3434 Lewallen LW, McIntosh AL, Dahm DL. Predictors of recurrent instability after acute patellofemoral dislocation in pediatric and adolescent patients. Am J Sports Med 2013;41(03):575–581,3737 Dolak KL, Silkman C, Medina McKeon J, Hosey RG, Lattermann C, Uhl TL. Hip strengthening prior to functional exercises reduces pain sooner than quadriceps strengthening in females with patellofemoral pain syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(08):560–570,3838 Cowan SM, Bennell KL, Crossley KM, Hodges PW, McConnell J. Physical therapy alters recruitment of the vasti in patellofemoral pain syndrome. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2002;34(12):1879–1885 The period of immobilization after dislocation episode varies in the literature between 2 and 6 weeks.88 Saccomanno MF, Sircana G, Fodale M, Donati F,Milano G. Surgical versus conservative treatment of primary patellar dislocation. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Orthop 2016;40(11): 2277–2287

Surgical treatment

The selection of the appropriate surgical procedure depends on the individual pathophysiology of patellar instability, which, for the most part, is anatomical in nature. For this reason, surgical techniques aim to restore normal anatomy, and there is an association between lateral patellar dislocations and medial soft tissue lesions.1515 Weber AE, Nathani A, Dines JS, et al. An Algorithmic Approach to the Management of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016;98(05):417–427 Indications for surgical treatment are also related to pain and patient function. In many cases, patients have minimal symptoms at rest, but significantly limit their functional activities due to apprehension and instability. Therefore, the risk of recurrence is an important element to be considered in treatment.66 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Clin Sports Med 2014;33 (03):461–476 The objective of surgical treatment of patellar instability is to stabilize it, restore normal kinematics and optimize the transmission of loads through the joint. Surgical techniques include bone procedures, such as osteotomy of the tibial tuberosity, with medialization and/or distalization, and trochleoplasty; soft tissue interventions, such as reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL).3939 Longo UG, Berton A, Salvatore G, et al. Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Combined With Bony Procedures for Patellar Instability: Current Indications, Outcomes, and Complications. Arthroscopy 2016;32(07):1421–1427,4040 Dejour D, Le Coultre B. Osteotomies in Patello-Femoral Instabilities. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev 2018;26(01):8–15 Arthroscopic and minimally invasive techniques, such as medial plication and retinacular releases, are typically recommended for patients with minimal bone misalignment or trochlear dysplasia, or as adjuvants to provide additional soft tissue balance in patients undergoing bone repair procedures.4141 Fonseca LPRMD, Kawatake EH, Pochini AC. Lateral patellar retinacular release: changes over the last ten years. Rev Bras Ortop 2017;52(04):442–449 However, isolated arthroscopic lateral retinacular release may result in increased lateral mobility of the patella and medial instability, and is not recommended.66 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Clin Sports Med 2014;33 (03):461–476

Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament

Among the surgical techniques for recurrent patellar dislocation, the restoration of the function of the MPFL is one of the most important factors. The MPFL is the main restrictor to lateral translation of the patella and contributes with 50 to 60% of the medial containment force against lateral patellar translation. However, comparing the techniques of reconstruction of the MPFL, the choice of graft, the positioning of this graft or its tension, is difficult, given the scarcity of clinical evidence of comparative studies. 2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1,4242 Baumann CA, Pratte EL, Sherman SL, Arendt EA, Hinckel BB. Reconstruction of the medial patellotibial ligament results in favorable clinical outcomes: a systematic review. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2018;26(10):2920–2933 Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is indicated for patients with MPFL lesions or deficiency and who present recurrent instability without evidence of bone malalignment. Arthroscopic diagnosis can also be made prior to MPFL reconstruction to identify any osteochondral lesions or free bodies.4343 Buchanan G, Torres L, Czarkowski B, Giangarra CE. current concepts in the treatment of gross patellofemoral instability. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2016;11(06):867–876 The reconstructive techniques of the MPFL involve autologous graft of the flexor tendons (gravitis or semitendinous), passed through a patellar bone tunnel in the femur or fixed to the patella with suture anchors. The quadriceps tendon can also be used as a graft for the MPFL.4343 Buchanan G, Torres L, Czarkowski B, Giangarra CE. current concepts in the treatment of gross patellofemoral instability. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2016;11(06):867–876 The knee flexion angle during MPFL graft fixation ranges from 20º to 90º. Graft fixation at smaller and larger knee flexion angles during MPFL reconstruction showed satisfactory results reported by the patients and low recurrence rates.4444 Patel NK, de Sa D, Vaswani R, Kay J, Musahl V, Lesniak BP. Knee Flexion Angle During Graft Fixation for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review of Outcomes and Complications. Arthroscopy 2019;35(06):1893–1904 Regarding the comparison between single-band or double band graft, there seems to be no differences regarding the improvement of knee function, recurrence rate and occurrence of complications. The single band technique may present a higher risk of postoperative apprehension, and the double band may cause greater joint stiffness, but there is insufficient evidence in the literature to support or refute these findings.4545 Kang H, Zheng R, Dai Y, Lu J, Wang F. Single- and double-bundle medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction procedures result in similar recurrent dislocation rates and improvements in knee function: a systematic review. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2019;27(03):827–836,4646 Sadigursky D, de Melo Laranjeira SM, Nunes M, Caneiro RJ, Colavolpe PO. Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament by means of the anatomical double-bundle technique using metal anchors. Rev Bras Ortop 2016;51(03):290–297

Most studies on MPFL reconstruction, alone or combined with other techniques, show positive results, with improvement of pain and physical function and low incidence of recurrent dislocations. A systematic review4747 Shamrock AG, Day MA, Duchman KR, Glass N, Westermann RW. Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Orthop J Sports Med 2019;7(07):2325967119855023 analyzed the effects of this surgery on skeletally immature patients (mean 13.2 years old and 4.8 years postoperatively, autologous flexor graft). There was a significant improvement in the Kujala questionnaire from 59.1 to 84.6 points before and after surgery. The complication rate was 25%, 3.8% redislocation and 11.4% subluxation. The systematic review by Lee et al.,2626 Lee DY, Park YJ, Song SY, Hwang SC, Park JS, Kang DG. Which Technique Is Better for Treating Patellar Dislocation? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy 2018;34(11):3082–3093. e1 in 2018, compared the techniques of medial realignment and reconstruction of the MPFL and observed a significant difference in favor of reconstruction in physical function evaluated by the Kujala questionnaires (mean difference [DM] - 8.91 [- 14.05 to - 3.77]) and Lysholm (DM - 13.51 [- 21.35 to - 5.68]).

A combined surgical approach appears to be indicated for patients with increased tuber-trochlear tibiasule (TAS-GT) or severe trochlear dysplasia. The indication for the reconstruction of the MPFL combined with a bone procedure such as osteotomy is influenced by individual anatomical changes.3838 Cowan SM, Bennell KL, Crossley KM, Hodges PW, McConnell J. Physical therapy alters recruitment of the vasti in patellofemoral pain syndrome. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2002;34(12):1879–1885

Osteotomy of the anterior tuberosity of the tibia

Osteotomy of the tibial tuberosity is another treatment option for patients with patellofemoral instability. It refers to the alteration of the position of the tibial tuberosity, realignment of the knee extensor mechanism and correction of misalignment and instability. This procedure is indicated in patients with recurrent instability, increased TA-GT distance, high patella, or high-grade osteochondral lesions in the patellofemoral joint.3333 Koh JL, Stewart C. Patellar instability. Orthop Clin North Am 2015; 46(01):147–157,4040 Dejour D, Le Coultre B. Osteotomies in Patello-Femoral Instabilities. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev 2018;26(01):8–15,4343 Buchanan G, Torres L, Czarkowski B, Giangarra CE. current concepts in the treatment of gross patellofemoral instability. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2016;11(06):867–876 One of the most common techniques is the anteromedialization osteotomy described by Fulkerson et al.,4848 Fulkerson JP. Anteromedialization of the tibial tuberosity for patellofemoral malalignment. Clin Orthop Relat Res 1983;(177): 176–181 which involves the transfer of the tibial tuberosity anteromedially, and is indicated for patients with increased TA-GT distance, high patella, or osteochondral lesions. The medialization of the ATT, also known as the Elmslie-Trillat procedure, is an option to treat patellar malalignment in patients without high patella. 4343 Buchanan G, Torres L, Czarkowski B, Giangarra CE. current concepts in the treatment of gross patellofemoral instability. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2016;11(06):867–876 The results after the transfer of the ATT have shown good results. A systematic review analyzed 38 studies with a total of 1,182 surgeries, and reported a recurrence rate of dislocation of 7%.4949 Longo UG, Rizzello G, Ciuffreda M, et al. Elmslie-Trillat, Maquet, Fulkerson, Roux Goldthwait, and Other Distal Realignment Procedures for the Management of Patellar Dislocation: Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis of the Literature. Arthroscopy 2016;32(05):929–943

Trochleoplastia

Patellar instability with severe trochlear dysplasia is the main indication for trochleoplasty, a surgical technique capable of correcting and remodeling the bone architecture of the femoral trochlea. 5050 Nolan JE III, Schottel PC, Endres NK. Trochleoplasty: Indications and Technique. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 2018;11(02): 231–240 Specific indications for trochleoplasty include patients with extreme patellar malalignment (identified by the "J" sign on clinical examination and TA-GT distance > 10 mm), abnormal trochlear morphology in the presence of normal or almost normal articular cartilage.1515 Weber AE, Nathani A, Dines JS, et al. An Algorithmic Approach to the Management of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016;98(05):417–427,5151 Carstensen SE,Menzer HM, Diduch DR. Patellar Instability:When is Trochleoplasty Necessary? Sports Med Arthrosc Rev 2017;25 (02):92–99

Different techniques for surgical correction of trochlear dysplasia were described:1) elevation of the lateral facet; 2) deepening of the groove with or without subchondral trochlear removal, followed by fixation of the corrected trochlear cartilage; and 3) resection of a subchondral cartilaginous flap, remodeling of the trochlea andre-fixation of the cartilage.5050 Nolan JE III, Schottel PC, Endres NK. Trochleoplasty: Indications and Technique. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 2018;11(02): 231–240,5252 Banke IJ, Kohn LM, Meidinger G, et al. Combined trochleoplasty and MPFL reconstruction for treatment of chronic patellofemoral instability: a prospective minimum 2-year follow-up study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2014;22(11):2591–2598

Trochleoplasty is contraindicated for patients with open epiphyseal plaque or diagnosed with diffuse patellofemoral arthrosis. Complications associated with trochleoplasty include arthritis as a result of damage to the cartilage of the trochlea, and arthrofibrosis.5353 LaPrade RF, Cram TR, James EW, Rasmussen MT. Trochlear dysplasia and the role of trochleoplasty. Clin Sports Med 2014; 33(03):531–545 Given the technical requirements and potential complications, the clinical outcomes after trochleoplasty present satisfaction rates between 67 and 95%.1515 Weber AE, Nathani A, Dines JS, et al. An Algorithmic Approach to the Management of Recurrent Lateral Patellar Dislocation. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2016;98(05):417–427,5252 Banke IJ, Kohn LM, Meidinger G, et al. Combined trochleoplasty and MPFL reconstruction for treatment of chronic patellofemoral instability: a prospective minimum 2-year follow-up study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2014;22(11):2591–2598

According to Banke et al.,5252 Banke IJ, Kohn LM, Meidinger G, et al. Combined trochleoplasty and MPFL reconstruction for treatment of chronic patellofemoral instability: a prospective minimum 2-year follow-up study. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2014;22(11):2591–2598 trochleoplasty combined with MPFL reconstruction has shown good results for the treatment of chronic patellar instability. This concept of associated treatment is a safe option, not only as rescue therapy, but also as a primary procedure in relation to the treatment of patients with important anatomical changes, such as severe trochlear dysplasia. Isolated reconstruction of the MPFL, for these cases, according to the authors, can lead to 46% of recurrent dislocation.

Angular deformities

According to Zhang et al.,5454 Zhang X, Attenello J, Safran MR, Lowenberg DW. Congenital internal rotation deformity of the distal femur presenting as patellofemoral instability and pain. J ISAKOS 2019;4:93–97 femoral deformities, such as valgus or rotary, can lead to patellar dislocation and sometimes must be corrected. Distal varization osteotomy and external femoral derotation osteotomy can often prevent further dislocations of the patella, without the need for other corrective associations. According to the authors, the internal rotation of the femur should be excessive for osteotomy, citing 4 cases with 30º, 45º and 60º of internal rotation of the femur, in which they performed external derotation osteotomy and dislocations no longer occurred.

Conclusion

The available scientific evidence regarding the treatment of patellar instability is still controversial and of low to moderate methodological quality. However, updating regarding treatment and diagnosis strategies and knowledge of the risk factors of this injury are important to assist the decision-making of the surgeon. It is essential to understand the importance of the surgical technique regarding the individual anatomical alterations involved. Future studies with greater methodological rigor are still needed to address topics that remain uncertain.

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Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    04 June 2021
  • Date of issue
    Mar-Apr 2021

History

  • Received
    10 Sept 2019
  • Accepted
    17 Mar 2020
  • Published
    02 Nov 2020
Sociedade Brasileira de Ortopedia e Traumatologia Al. Lorena, 427 14º andar, 01424-000 São Paulo - SP - Brasil, Tel.: 55 11 2137-5400 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
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