Knee · Patellar stability

MPFL reconstruction

MPFL reconstruction is a surgical procedure for recurrent patellar dislocation, replacing the damaged medial patellofemoral ligament with a tendon graft to restore kneecap stability. Consultations with our fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. Brace use is typical for the first 4–6 weeks, with return to running around 3–4 months and return to pivoting sport typically at 6–9 months.

At Pathway, our fellowship-trained knee surgeons perform MPFL reconstruction. Consultations are available in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230

Restores kneecap stability
Brace typically 4–6 weeks
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

Patient using outdoor stairs confidently after knee stabilization recovery

5.0 from 250+ reviews

Kneecap stabilization

At a glance

MPFL reconstruction is a surgical procedure for recurrent patellar dislocation, replacing the damaged medial patellofemoral ligament with a tendon graft to restore kneecap stability.

Restores kneecap stability
Brace typically 4–6 weeks
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

1–3 days

to first consultation

2–4 weeks

from consult to surgery

4–6 weeks

typical brace use

6–9 months

typical return to sport

Patient stories

Recovery, in their words.

5.0 from 250+ patient reviews

We used Pathway Surgery for knee arthroscopy for our 15 year old son who needed MPFL reconstruction. We were extremely satisfied with Dr. Abouali and our son had hardly any pain or swelling after the operation as trauma was considerably minimized. We have no hesitation in recommending Pathway Surgery anytime.

Cecilia Thompson

MPFL reconstruction

What is the MPFL?

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is a band of tissue that connects your kneecap (patella) to your thigh bone (femur). It acts as a primary restraint, helping keep your kneecap in its proper groove during knee movement.

When the MPFL is torn or stretched — often from a patellar dislocation — the kneecap can become unstable and prone to slipping out of place repeatedly. This can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling that the knee might “give way.”

MPFL reconstruction is designed to restore stability to the kneecap, helping prevent future dislocations and allowing patients to return to activities with confidence.

Surgeon insights

Hear from our surgeons.

Our sports medicine specialists discuss patellar instability and knee stabilization procedures.

Q&A guide

Knee sports injuries Q&A

Patellar instability, treatment options, and rehabilitation.

Full Q&A guide

View all surgeon Q&A guides

Surgical technique

How MPFL reconstruction works.

1

Graft preparation

A tendon graft is prepared to replace the damaged MPFL ligament
2

Graft positioning

The surgeon positions the graft between the femur and patella to recreate the normal MPFL function
3

Secure fixation

The graft is carefully secured and tensioned to allow smooth kneecap movement while preventing dislocation
4

Tracking verification

Knee motion and kneecap tracking are checked during surgery to ensure proper stability

Restoring kneecap stability

The reconstruction recreates the natural ligament, helping the kneecap track properly in its groove and preventing it from slipping out of place during activity.

Combined procedures: In some cases, MPFL reconstruction may be combined with other procedures if additional factors are contributing to instability.

Candidacy

Who needs MPFL reconstruction?

This procedure is typically recommended for patients with recurrent patellar instability.

Common candidates

Two or more patellar dislocations
Feeling of kneecap instability or “giving way”
Failed conservative treatment (bracing, PT)
Young, active patients with instability

Symptoms addressed

Kneecap popping out of place
Pain around the kneecap
Swelling after dislocation episodes
Fear of knee giving way during activity
Avoiding sports or activities due to instability

Your surgeons

Our MPFL specialists.

Fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons specializing in knee stability.

Dr. Jihad Abouali

Knee & shoulder sports medicine

Dr. Thierry Pauyo

Hip, knee & shoulder sports medicine

Read full surgeon profiles

Your recovery

Recovery after MPFL reconstruction.

1–2 weeks
1

1–2 weeks

Brace & crutches

Protected weight bearing
4–6 weeks
2

4–6 weeks

Range of motion

Gradual increase in knee bend
3–4 months
3

3–4 months

Strengthening

Progressive quad and hip work
6–9 months
4

6–9 months

Return to sport

With clearance from surgeon

4–6 weeks

Brace use

Typical duration of bracing

3–4 months

Running

Typical return to running

6–9 months

Return to sport

With clearance from surgeon

Recovery timelines vary by individual. Your surgeon will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

MPFL reconstruction typically uses small incisions rather than being fully arthroscopic. The surgeon may use arthroscopy to assess the joint, but graft placement usually requires small open incisions to properly position and secure the ligament reconstruction.

MPFL reconstruction has a high success rate for preventing recurrent dislocations. While no surgery can provide a 100% guarantee of prevention, most patients experience significant improvement in stability and are able to return to sports and activities without issues.

Yes, most patients return to their pre-injury activity level. Return to sport typically occurs around 6-9 months after surgery, once strength and stability are restored and you're cleared by your surgeon.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly. Having a recent MRI is helpful since it shows the condition of your MPFL and other knee structures.

Next step

Start your care journey.

Schedule a consultation to discuss how MPFL reconstruction can help stabilize your knee. No referral required.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230

Continue your research.

Specialty Knee procedures Surgeon Dr. Sebastian Rodriguez Elizalde Surgeon Dr. Michael Zywiel Surgeon Dr. Jihad Abouali Surgeon Dr. Thierry Pauyo Related procedure ACL Reconstruction in Canada Related procedure ACL Repair in Canada

MPFL reconstruction