Evaluation of the results of double-bundle transpatellar medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using semitendinosus autograft

Background
The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is the main static patellar stabilizer beyond 30° of knee flexion. Nowadays, MPFL reconstruction is the gold standard operation for recurrent patellar dislocation.
Aim
To assess the results of double-bundle transpatellar MPFL reconstruction using semitendinosus graft. A case series study held at Alexandria University Hospitals.
Patients and methods
Between May 2011 through October 2013, 58 patients with recurrent patellar dislocation were treated by MPFL reconstruction using semitendinosus tendon autograft. Their mean age was 20.05 years. There were 13 men and 45 women. All patients were followed up for at least 24 months. Patients were assessed using the Kujala score.
Results
The overall results were considered good to excellent. No case reported postoperative redislocation. All patients had negative apprehension test postoperatively. The mean Kujala score improved from preoperative 49 (range: 35–64) points to postoperative 93.9 (<0.01).
Conclusion
The use of transpatellar technique for MPFL reconstruction has very low complication rate of more than 24 months follow-up. There were no reported cases of patellar fractures or loss of knee flexion.