MPFL Reconstruction
🦵 What Is an MPFL Reconstruction?
MPFL reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to stabilise the kneecap (patella) after it has dislocated — especially if it happens more than once.
The MPFL (medial patellofemoral ligament) is a band of tissue that helps keep your kneecap in place, stopping it from sliding too far to the outside. When the kneecap dislocates, this ligament often gets stretched or torn, leading to ongoing instability.
🛠️ How Is It Done?
The damaged MPFL is reconstructed using a graft, often taken from your own hamstring tendon.
The surgeon attaches the graft between the inner side of the kneecap and the femur (thighbone), creating a new ligament that holds the kneecap in its proper position.
It’s done through small incisions, and often combined with arthroscopy to check for other damage in the knee.
🕒 Recovery Timeline
Crutches and a knee brace are usually used for the first 2–4 weeks.
Physiotherapy begins early to restore movement and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
Return to sport or full activity is generally expected at 4–6 months, depending on progress.
🎯 What Are the Benefits?
Prevents repeated kneecap dislocations
Improves confidence and stability during movement
Can help avoid long-term damage to cartilage behind the kneecap
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
As with any surgery, risks include but are not limited to infection, stiffness, fracture, or graft failure (rare).
Success depends on correcting any underlying anatomical issues, like abnormal kneecap alignment — sometimes other procedures are done at the same time (e.g. tibial tubercle transfer, trochleoplasty).
