Arthroscopically assisted medial reefing without routine lateral release for patellar instability.

Background: Patellofemoral instability in patients with normal alignment has been effectively treated with medial reefing procedures and a lateral release. Recent research suggests that a lateral release may not be necessary in patients without excessive patellar tilt.
Hypothesis: Arthroscopically assisted medial reefing without lateral release is as effective as techniques with a lateral release reported in the literature.
Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.
Methods: Twenty-four patients (25 knees) were observed for an average of 60 months. Preoperatively, patients underwent a history, physical examination, and radiographic evaluation. At follow-up, a physical examination and radiographic evaluation were repeated. Preoperative and postoperative Lysholm and Tegner scores were calculated. A subjective questionnaire was also completed. Comparative statistics were used for the preoperative and postoperative scores (P < .05).
Results: Ninety-six percent (24/25) were satisfied with their results, and all patients would have the same procedure performed again. Subjective symptom scores improved significantly. Lysholm knee scores improved from an average of 54 to 91 (P < .001). Tegner activity level improved from an average of 3.3 to 6.2 (P < .001). Significant improvement was seen in patellar mobility, apprehension, and patellofemoral tenderness with compression. Range of motion, muscle atrophy, and tilt did not change significantly. Congruence angles improved from 4.4 degrees to -2.5 degrees (P = .009), lateral patellofemoral angles improved from 5.5 degrees to 8.7 degrees (P = .011), and lateral patellar displacement improved from 2.0 to 0.2 mm (P < .044). There were no recurrent dislocations or subluxations.
Conclusion: Arthroscopically assisted medial reefing, without lateral release, is an effective treatment for patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability and normal alignment.