So You’ve Mastered MPFL Reconstruction: What Else to Add, and When? (AANA22)-Lateral Retinacular Release and Lengthening in Patellar Stabilization Surgery

Lateral Retinacular Release and Lengthening in Patellar Stabilization Surgery

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discussed lateral-sided soft tissues in relation to the patellofemoral joint. The presenter mentioned the anatomy of the lateral patellofemoral complex, which consists of the lateral patellofemoral ligament, the lateral patella-tibial ligament, and the lateral patella-meniscal ligament. The presenter explained that the lateral patellofemoral ligament is commonly referred to as the lateral retinaculum during a release. It originates near the lateral epicondyle and attaches to the central third of the patella, providing stability during extension. The lateral patella-tibial ligament is a longitudinal fiber that goes from the lateral tibial condyle to the distal lateral border of the patella and patellar tendon. The presenter emphasized that isolated lateral release does not have any indications for the treatment of patellar instability. The video also discussed medial instability and its association with lateral instability. Surgical techniques for addressing lateral retinaculum and medial instability were described, including arthroscopic release, open lateral retinacular lengthening, and various reconstruction options. The presenter concluded that lateral retinacular lengthening may offload the joint, but it comes with the cost of instability, and medial instability should be identified and treated appropriately.

Asset Caption

Miho J. Tanaka, M.D., M.A.

Keywords

lateral-sided soft tissues

patellofemoral joint

lateral patellofemoral complex

lateral retinaculum

patellar instability

medial instability