MPFL Reconstruction Surgery
MPFL Reconstruction Surgery
MPFL Reconstruction Surgery
What is the MPFL, and Why is it Important for Knee Function?
What is the MPFL, and Why is it Important for Knee Function?
The Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) is a band of tissue on the inner side of the knee that helps keep your kneecap (patella) stable and properly aligned, especially during movement like bending, squatting, or running.
The Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) is a band of tissue on the inner side of the knee that helps keep your kneecap (patella) stable and properly aligned, especially during movement like bending, squatting, or running.
When the MPFL is torn—typically from a kneecap dislocation or traumatic injury—it can lead to repeated dislocations, instability, pain, and a loss of confidence in movement. Without a properly functioning MPFL, the kneecap can drift out of place, damaging cartilage and increasing the risk of arthritis over time.
When the MPFL is torn—typically from a kneecap dislocation or traumatic injury—it can lead to repeated dislocations, instability, pain, and a loss of confidence in movement. Without a properly functioning MPFL, the kneecap can drift out of place, damaging cartilage and increasing the risk of arthritis over time.
How is MPFL Reconstruction Performed?
MPFL reconstruction is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to restore stability to your kneecap. The torn ligament is replaced with a new graft—often using a small piece of your own tendon (usually the hamstring) or a donor graft (allograft).
How is MPFL Reconstruction Performed?
MPFL reconstruction is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to restore stability to your kneecap. The torn ligament is replaced with a new graft—often using a small piece of your own tendon (usually the hamstring) or a donor graft (allograft).
Step-by-Step Overview:
Step-by-Step Overview:
Step-by-Step Overview:
1. Arthroscopic Assessment
The surgeon first inspects the knee joint using a small camera (arthroscope).
2. Graft Harvest
If an autograft is used, a small portion of your own hamstring tendon is carefully taken.
3. Precise Tunnel Creation
Small bone tunnels are made in the femur and patella to anchor the new ligament.
4. Graft Placement and Fixation
The graft is secured using advanced fixation devices like bioabsorbable screws or anchors.
5. Tensioning and Alignment
The new ligament is tensioned carefully to ensure the patella tracks normally through a full range of motion.
1. Arthroscopic Assessment
The surgeon first inspects the knee joint using a small camera (arthroscope).
2. Graft Harvest
If an autograft is used, a small portion of your own hamstring tendon is carefully taken.
3. Precise Tunnel Creation
Small bone tunnels are made in the femur and patella to anchor the new ligament.
4. Graft Placement and Fixation
The graft is secured using advanced fixation devices like bioabsorbable screws or anchors.
5. Tensioning and Alignment
The new ligament is tensioned carefully to ensure the patella tracks normally through a full range of motion.
Advanced Techniques and Technologies in MPFL Reconstruction
Modern MPFL reconstruction focuses on anatomic precision, graft stability, and minimizing complications. Here’s what sets today’s approach apart:
Anatomic Tunnel Placement with 3D Imaging or Fluoroscopy
Anatomic Tunnel Placement with 3D Imaging or Fluoroscopy
Advanced imaging tools allow surgeons to place grafts exactly where the native MPFL attached, reducing the risk of stiffness or overcorrection.
All-Inside Technique
All-Inside Technique
Some surgeons use an "all-inside" method, minimizing bone drilling and reducing surgical trauma—ideal for young, active patients.
Knotless Anchor Systems
Knotless Anchor Systems
These low-profile implants allow for strong graft fixation without bulky knots or screws, improving comfort and recovery outcomes.
Hybrid Grafts
Hybrid Grafts
In certain cases, biocompatible synthetic augmentation may be used alongside biological tissue for added strength during early recovery, especially in high-risk athletes.
Combined Realignment Procedures
Combined Realignment Procedures
If your anatomy places you at risk for repeat dislocations (e.g., high-riding kneecap or knock knees), MPFL reconstruction may be combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) or other alignment corrections.
Advanced Techniques and Technologies in MPFL Reconstruction
Modern MPFL reconstruction focuses on anatomic precision, graft stability, and minimizing complications. Here’s what sets today’s approach apart:
Anatomic Tunnel Placement with 3D Imaging or Fluoroscopy
Advanced imaging tools allow surgeons to place grafts exactly where the native MPFL attached, reducing the risk of stiffness or overcorrection.
All-Inside Technique
Some surgeons use an "all-inside" method, minimizing bone drilling and reducing surgical trauma—ideal for young, active patients.
Knotless Anchor Systems
These low-profile implants allow for strong graft fixation without bulky knots or screws, improving comfort and recovery outcomes.
Hybrid Grafts
In certain cases, biocompatible synthetic augmentation may be used alongside biological tissue for added strength during early recovery, especially in high-risk athletes.
Combined Realignment Procedures
If your anatomy places you at risk for repeat dislocations (e.g., high-riding kneecap or knock knees), MPFL reconstruction may be combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) or other alignment corrections.
Famous Athletes Who Returned to Sport After Knee Replacement
Famous Athletes Who Returned to Sport After Knee Replacement
While ACL reconstruction is more common in elite sports, interest in ACL repair is growing with advancements in technique. Several athletes are now returning to play after undergoing ACL repair:
While ACL reconstruction is more common in elite sports, interest in ACL repair is growing with advancements in technique. Several athletes are now returning to play after undergoing ACL repair:
While ACL reconstruction is more common in elite sports, interest in ACL repair is growing with advancements in technique. Several athletes are now returning to play after undergoing ACL repair:
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
Kelsey Robinson
Olympic Volleyball Player
Robinson, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team and Olympic medalist, had MPFL reconstruction surgery due to chronic kneecap instability.
She made a successful return to international competition and helped lead Team USA to medal-winning performances.
Travis Frederick
NFL (Dallas Cowboys)
Although better known for other injuries, Frederick sustained kneecap instability early in his career and underwent MPFL reconstruction.
He returned to the NFL and went on to become a Pro Bowl center, showing that linemen, in particular, can achieve full strength post-surgery.
Imani McGee-Stafford
WNBA
The professional basketball player underwent MPFL reconstruction after suffering repeated patellar dislocations during her career.
Following surgery and rehab, she returned to compete in the WNBA, showing that elite-level performance is possible after this procedure.
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