What is kneecap dislocation?
The kneecap (patella) glides in a groove at the front of the thigh bone. A shallow groove, a high-riding kneecap or a weak inner stabilising ligament (MPFL) can let it slip out, usually outwards. After a first dislocation the chance of it happening again is high, especially in young people.
Symptoms
- A feeling of something slipping out of the knee
- Pain and swelling
- Recurrent dislocations or a sense of instability
Diagnosis
Examination, X-ray and MRI assess the kneecap's position, the shape of the groove, ligament damage and any associated cartilage injury.
Treatment
First dislocation
If no cartilage fragment has broken off, a first dislocation is usually treated with physiotherapy and strengthening.
Recurrent dislocation: MPFL reconstruction
If dislocations recur, the ligament that holds the kneecap from the inside is rebuilt with a graft. Additional bony procedures can be planned if the groove or kneecap position is clearly abnormal. Prof. Gürsoy has published on MPFL reconstruction and contributed to an international consensus statement on patellar instability.
Recovery
A staged rehabilitation follows surgery; return to sport is decided with tests of kneecap security and strength.
Common questions
Will it dislocate again?
Recurrence is possible, especially in teenage and young athletes; risk factors are assessed with examination and imaging.
Is surgery done in children?
In children whose growth plates are open, the plan is adapted accordingly; the decision is individual.