Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Using the Autogenous Hamstring Tendon for Recurrent Patellar Instability: A Preliminary Report

Lee, Kee Byung; Song, Si Young; Lee, Seong Jin; Son, Won Su

Abstract

PURPOSE
We present the short-term results of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using the autogenous hamstring tendon for recurrent patellar instability.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Seven patients with recurrent patellar instability were treated with MPFL reconstruction using a semitendinosus or gracilis autograft from February 2008 to November 2008. All the patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively according to the physical findings, scores and radiographs, with a mean follow-up of 13.6 months (range: 12~15 months).
RESULTS
The apprehension test was positive in all the knees preoperatively and no knee was found to be positive at the follow-up. The grind test was positive in all the knees preoperatively and one knee was found to be positive at the follow-up. The Q-angle was 16.9degrees preoperatively and 18.3degrees at the follow-up. The Kujala score improved from 33.7 points to 94.1 points (p=0.018), the Lysholm score improved from 42.4 points to 92.6 points (p=0.018) and the Tegner activity level improved 2.1 to 5.1 (p=0.026). The congruence angle was 10.2degrees preoperatively and -3.4degrees at follow-up (p=0.018). The patellar height was 1.95 preoperatively and 1.6 at follow-up (p=0.028). There were no patients with recurrent dislocation.
CONCLUSION
MPFL reconstruction using the autogenous hamstring tendon for recurrent patellar instability is an effective operation, according to the short term follow-up.