What is a MPFL Reconstruction/Repair?
The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the main ligament that stabilizes the patella (kneecap), from moving out of place. This ligament connects between the medial or inside of the femur by the knee and the medial aspect of the patella. Some anatomic variants of this ligament exist and have the ligament attaching to the quadriceps muscle and medial tissues of the knee. A MPFL Reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the anatomy of the kneecap by replacing the torn ligament with a new one and help stabilize the kneecap from dislocating. The MPFL can sometimes be repaired in younger patients. MPFL reconstruction is commonly done in combination with other procedures, like a tibial tubercle transfer, to stabilize the kneecap from further dislocation.
How is this performed?
The MPFL Reconstruction is commonly performed using tissue to replace the torn ligament. This tissue is commonly a hamstring tissue which can be either using one’s own tissue (autograft) or someone else’s tissue or cadaver (allograft). Two small incisions are made on the medial side of the knee and bone tunnels are created in the kneecap and the medial femur. The new ligament is then placed within those tunnels and is held in place with hardware.
Recovery:
This surgery is an outpatient procedure and does require general anesthesia. Patients will be placed in a brace after surgery and utilize crutches to help walk for a period of time after surgery. Physical therapy will start immediately after surgery and continue for 3-4 months following surgery. The full recovery is about 6-9 months before a person can return to their sport but only a couple weeks for a person to return to a sedentary job.