Patella dislocations

Abstract

The patellofemoral joint relies on muscular, ligamentous and bony support for normal stability and function. Dislocations commonly occur due to simultaneous rotational force with contraction of the quadriceps. Bony, muscular and ligamentous factors predispose to dislocations although no single factor causes more dislocations than any other. The diagnosis is based on the history combined with physical examination and radiological investigations. A careful scrutiny of the radiographs is necessary to determine the presence of osteochondral fractures in acute patellar dislocations. Special views and further imagining is indicated especially in those with recurrent symptoms. The treatment of acute dislocations is most commonly non operative. Surgery in acute patellar dislocations is indicated for intra articular fragments or those with large osteochondral fractures. Various soft tissue and bony realignment procedures have been described for recurrent dislocations. No single procedure is superior to another. Factors such as the patient’s age, functional needs, extent of malalignment and the condition of the joint are important factors to be considered prior to operative intervention. In this paper we discuss an overview of the diagnosis and management of patella dislocations with a literature review on the current concepts in treatment.