Modified Technique for Tibial Tubercle Elevation with Realignment for Patellofemoral Pain

Abstract

Malalignment of the quadriceps mechanism was corrected and the tibial tuberosity elevated in 17 knees in 16 patients without the use of a free bone graft. The indications for operation were patellofemoral pain unresponsive to conservative treatment, recurrent subluxation or dislocation of the patella, and patients who had had a previous patellectomy with subsequent lateral subluxation of the patella tendon associated with pain. A bone block including the attachment of the patellar tendon is transposed medially to correct the quadriceps angle (Q-angle), elevate the tibial tuberosity, and thereby decrease patellofemoral pressure. A prerequisite for this procedure is a Q-angle of 20 degrees or more. The average age of the patients was 29 years. The follow-up period was one to four years. Eighty-five percent of the patients had an excellent or good result. The only complication was a stress fracture, which developed in one bone block.