Sam Akhavan, MD
Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Doctor
Arthroscopy Surgeon for Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Pain and Injuries
SHOULDER
ARTHROSCOPY
SURGEON
KNEE
ARTHROSCOPY
SURGEON
Patellar Dislocation
Patellar dislocations occur typically in young athletes as a result of a twisting or contact injury. An acute dislocation will typically results in severe pain and may cause the knee to be locked in a bent position.
Once reduced, follow-up with a sports medicine specialist is recommended. After a first time patellar dislocation, patients can typically try a course of physical therapy and bracing. As long as the patella does not dislocate again, there may be no long term issues with the knee
If the patella continues to dislocate however, it may require surgery to stabilize it permanently.
Several surgeries can be performed depending on the severity of the recurrent dislocation. A medial patella-femoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is typically performed if the structures on the inside of the patella are stretched out. If the dislocation is a result of malalignment of the knee, a realignment procedure called a tibial tubercle osteotomy can be performed.
Illustration of a patella dislocation
ANIMATION OF A
Medial Patella-Femoral Ligament (MPFL)
Reconstruction
ANIMATION OF A
Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy
Dr. Akhavan performs ACL surgery in Pittsburgh, PA at Three Locations
The Allegheny General Hospital Surgery Center on the North Side
The Wexford Health and Wellness Pavillion
Sewickley Heritage Valley.
CALL 412-359-3895 for an appointment
