Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Suture anchors are the mainstay of treatment for reconstructing a new MPFL. These suture anchors are a type of orthopaedic implant that attach to the ligament via a suture material and screw into the bone itself. Suture anchors are used initially to attach the new ligament to the patella and then tensioned and secured to the femur. Additionally, in situations where extra support is needed an internal brace, thick band of suture, can be utilized to reinforce the reconstruction. Suture anchors are the ideal fixation method to reattach the ligament as they are able to resist high loads and require minimal drilling into the bone.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Surgery
In the past, soft tissue tightening techniques were used to attempt to strengthen the medial patellofemoral ligament. Unfortunately, these techniques were found to not be as effective in preventing recurrence of dislocation as reconstruction of the MPFL. The key to successful MPFL reconstruction is to reconstruct the ligament back to its original anatomic location on the kneecap (patella) and the thighbone (femur). Proper tensioning is also crucial to allow for the patella to track normally within the femur groove. The goals of reconstruction are to provide stability to the knee and the return the patient back to normal activities. While early MPFL tears may be treated with repair of the ligament; the treatment of choice is generally to reconstruct the ligament with either the patient’s own tissues (autograft) or a donor’s tissue (allograft). There are various ways to secure the graft to the bones including suture buttons, suture bone anchors, and bone interference screws. Risks of this surgery include potentially fracturing the kneecap or recurrent knee instability.
Arthrex™ MPFL Biocomposite Implant System
The Arthrex™ MPFL Biocomposite Implant System is for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction which replicates the native shape of the MPFL through a double-bundle technique. This technique effectively limits patella rotation throughout range of motion, helping to minimize postoperative instability. Additionally this technique, if accomplished directly and anatomically, can allow for more aggressive rehabilitation protocols and earlier return to activity. Specifically, this implant system incorporates the use of a femoral template to ensure proper placement of the graft in the femur. This position provides a static fixation point that equalizes the tension across the graft in flexion and extension, thus helping minimize stress across the patellofemoral joint.
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