Clinical Outcomes of Combined Reconstruction of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) and Medial Quadriceps Tendon-Femoral Ligament (MQTFL) at a Minimum Follow-up of 2 Years

Abstract

Objectives: To report patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following isolated combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction in cases of patellar instability at a minimum follow-up of 2 years and to assess potential complications. Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed on consecutive skeletally mature patients who underwent isolated combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction between January 1, 2020, and May 31, 2022. Data were collected on physical examination, return to sport, and occurrence of complications. Patients completed Kujala and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Scores (PROMs) pre-operatively and at final follow-up. Results: A total of 82 patients underwent combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction, with 7 patients (8%) lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 3.2 ± 0.7 years (range, 2.2 to 5.8). The mean pre-operative Kujala knee function score was 62 points (range, 39-76), which increased to 86 points (range, 86-93) at final follow-up (P = 0.00004). The mean pre-operative IKDC score was 42.5 (range, 39.1-44.8) points, increasing to 73 points (range, 70.1-75.9) at final follow-up (P = 0.00894). No instances of post-operative patellar fracture, infection, hematoma, or instability were reported. Minor complications were observed in 13.33% (10/75) of cases. Conclusion: In this series, combined MPFL and MQTFL reconstruction resulted in patellar stability, significant improvements in clinical and functional outcomes, and no major complications.