AJSM December 2020 Podcast: Comparison of Ligament Isometry and Patellofemoral Contact Pressures for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Techniques in Skeletally Immature Patients

Adult medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction techniques are not appropriate for the skeletally immature patient given the proximity of the distal femoral physis. Biomechanical consequences of reconstructions aimed at avoiding the physis have not been adequately studied. In conclusion, in this cadaveric simulation, the epiphyseal technique allowed for a more isometric ligament until midflexion, when the patella engaged within the trochlear groove. The adductor sling and adductor transfer grafts became tighter in flexion, resulting in potential loss of motion, pain, graft stretching, and failure. Marginal between-condition differences in patellofemoral contact mechanics and patellar kinematics were observed in late flexion.   Click here to read the article.