Affiliations: [a] Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany | [b] Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany | [c] Center for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Marburg, Germany
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Turgay Efe, Center for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg GmbH, Location Marburg, Baldingerstrasse, 35043 Marburg, Germany. Tel.: +49 6421 5863790; Fax: +49 6421 5867007; E-mail:efet@med.uni-marburg.de
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament
(MPFL) using free tendon grafts has become a widespread treatment option for
patellofemoral instability. As the numbers of cases gradually grow, so do
the reports of possible peri- and postoperative complications following this
procedure. OBJECTIVE: The present review summarizes all known complications of
MPFL reconstruction with regard to postoperative outcome and seeks to
highlight possible pitfalls that may occur during treatment. CONCLUSIONS: MPFL reconstruction generally has to be regarded as a
safe procedure today due to low patellar re-dislocation rates. Complication
rates however are not trivial owing to the complexity of the underlying
pathology. Complications can arise from graft fixation or femoral tunnel
placement. Postoperative flexion deficits and medial knee pain have been
described as predominant complaints. Anatomical preconditions as the grade
of trochlear dysplasia, axis or torsion of the lower extremity have to be
considered in search of causes for possible graft failure as well as in the
thorough preoperative planning of the procedure.
