Trochleoplasty With Combined Soft Tissue Reconstruction for Patellar Instability.

Background: Patellofemoral instability is a relatively common condition and is multifactorial in its cause, with both soft tissue and bony components. Trochleoplasty is a newly described surgical procedure to help improve outcomes following patellar restabilization.

Indications: Trochleoplasty is an emerging surgical technique during patellar stabilization surgery in those patients with underlying trochlear dysplasia.

Technique description: Trochleoplasty was performed via an open medial parapatellar arthrotomy. Using a combination of osteotome and guided bur, the subchondral surface was undermined to produce a deeper sulcus. The cartilage surface was then plastically deformed into the newly developed trochlea. Trochleoplasty was then secured with a central triple-loaded interference screw and 3 peripheral interference screws. Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction was then performed in standard fashion.

Results: Postoperative course was complicated by arthrofibrosis, which required manipulation at 4 weeks. Following manipulation, the patient recovered uneventfully and had returned to full activities at 6 months with full strength, range of motion, and minimal pain.

Discussion/conclusion: Trochleoplasty with combined soft tissue reconstruction is a viable treatment option in those patients with recurrent patellar instability and underlying trochlear dysplasia. While not without complications, this surgical technique remains a powerful tool in the correctly indicated patient. Appropriate patient selection and adherence to postoperative rehabilitation are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Patient consent disclosure statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.