Knee · Patellar stability
Ligament reconstruction for recurrent kneecap dislocation and instability. Meet your specialists and understand what to expect before booking.
5.0 from 250+ Pathway patient reviews5.0 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
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.
Our sports medicine specialists discuss patellar instability and knee stabilization procedures.
Patellar instability, treatment options, and rehabilitation.
Full Q&A guideGraft preparation
A tendon graft is prepared to replace the damaged MPFL ligament
Graft positioning
The surgeon positions the graft between the femur and patella to recreate the normal MPFL function
Secure fixation
The graft is carefully secured and tensioned to allow smooth kneecap movement while preventing dislocation
Tracking verification
Knee motion and kneecap tracking are checked during surgery to ensure proper 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.
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with recurrent patellar instability.
Fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons specializing in knee stability.
1–2 weeks
11–2 weeks
Protected weight bearing
4–6 weeks
24–6 weeks
Gradual increase in knee bend
3–4 months
33–4 months
Progressive quad and hip work
6–9 months
46–9 months
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.
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.
Schedule a consultation to discuss how MPFL reconstruction can help stabilize your knee. No referral required.
