Dr. Abhinav Singhal is a highly skilled Orthopedic Surgeon in Ghaziabad with over 10 years of experience, specializing in joint arthroscopy, joint replacement, and complex trauma care.

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Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL)

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  • Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL)

What is MPFL Reconstruction ?

MPFL reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair or reconstruct the medial patellofemoral ligament, which stabilizes the kneecap (patella) and prevents it from dislocating laterally (toward the outside of the knee).

This ligament is often torn during patellar dislocations, especially in young, active individuals.

🦵 When is MPFL Reconstruction Needed ?

Usually recommended if you have :-

  • Recurrent patellar dislocations or instability

  • Chronic knee pain or giving way

  • Failed non-surgical treatments (bracing, therapy)

  • Structural abnormalities of the knee


🔧 How is the Procedure Done ?

  1. Anesthesia : Usually general or spinal anesthesia.

  2. Graft Harvest : A tendon (often from your hamstring or a donor) is used to create a new MPFL.

  3. Graft Placement : The graft is anchored to the patella and femur using screws or anchors.

  4. Knee Alignment : The surgeon ensures proper tracking of the kneecap before final fixation.

  5. Closure : Incisions are closed with sutures and dressed.

⚠️ Risks & Complications

  • Knee stiffness or limited range of motion

  • Graft failure or re-dislocation

  • Overcorrection (patella pulling too far medially)

  • Infection or blood clots

  • Pain near the screw/anchor sites


Success Rate & Outcomes

MPFL reconstruction has a high success rate (~85–95%) in restoring knee stability and function, especially when combined with physical therapy.

ShapeF&Q's

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL)

You’ll use crutches and a knee brace initially, but most can walk with support within a few days.

Yes—rehab is critical. It usually starts right after surgery and continues for 4–6 months.

Yes. It’s often combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy or correction of trochlear dysplasia if needed.

Usually 6–9 months, depending on healing, strength, and your surgeon’s assessment.

Rare, but possible—especially without proper rehab or if other knee structures are also involved.