If you’ve ever experienced your kneecap sliding out of place, you know how painful and unsettling it can be. This condition, called patellar dislocation, often happens because of damage to a small but crucial ligament in your knee. Let’s discuss what happens when this ligament gets injured and how doctors can help fix it.
Understanding the MPFL
The medial patellofemoral ligament, or MPFL, is a band of tissue that acts like a seatbelt for your kneecap. It runs from the inside of your kneecap to your thighbone, keeping everything in its proper place. When you bend and straighten your leg, this ligament ensures your kneecap glides smoothly in its groove.
Your kneecap can pop out of place when the MPFL tears or stretches too much. This usually happens during sports or sudden twisting movements, though some people are born with knee structures that make them more prone to dislocations.
Signs You Might Need Surgery
Not everyone with a knee dislocation needs surgery. Your doctor will probably recommend MPFL reconstruction if you’re experiencing:
- Repeated dislocations – If your kneecap keeps popping out, even with physical therapy
- Chronic instability – That feeling like your knee might give out at any moment
- Pain that won’t quit – Persistent discomfort that limits your daily activities
- Failed conservative treatment – When bracing, rest, and exercises haven’t helped after several months
Athletes and active individuals often choose surgery because they need their knees to be reliable. But even if you’re not super sporty, chronic instability can really affect your quality of life.
What the Procedure Involves
The surgery rebuilds your damaged ligament using a graft, usually taken from a hamstring tendon. Your surgeon makes small incisions and uses special techniques to position the new ligament exactly where the old one was. The whole thing typically takes about an hour, and most people go home the same day.
Recovery Timeline
Getting back on your feet takes patience. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- First 2-6 weeks – You’ll use crutches and focus on reducing swelling
- 6-12 weeks – Physical therapy intensifies as you work on strength and range of motion
- 3-6 months – Gradual return to sports and high-impact activities
- 6-12 months – Full recovery for competitive athletes
Everyone heals differently, so your timeline might vary. The key is following your physical therapy plan religiously.
Making the Decision
Choosing surgery isn’t always straightforward. Talk honestly with your orthopedic surgeon about your lifestyle, goals, and concerns. They’ll examine your knee, examine imaging studies, and help you weigh the pros and cons. For many people, reconstruction offers the stability they need to return to the activities they love without that constant fear of their knee giving out.
