Patellar Realignment Surgery aims to correct the misalignment in the kneecap. This surgery is a great option for patients who suffer from chronic knee pain or instability. It can also improve mobility. The treatment for patellar realignment surgery is designed to enhance overall knee function.

What is Patellar Realignment Surgery ?

The Patellar Realignment Surgery involves the repositioning of the kneecap in order to make sure it tracks correctly within the femoral groove when the knee moves. Patients with Patellar Instability or Patellar Tracking Disorder are usually recommended to undergo this procedure.

Different types of patellar realignment are available, including:

Patients considering options for their condition should explore the treatment for patellar realignment surgery to determine if it’s the right choice for them.

Proximal Alignment– Focuses on soft tissues around the knee.
Distal Alignment involves changing the position the tibial tubercle (bone at which the patellar tendons attach).

Why is Patellar realignment surgery needed?

Misalignment of the patellar joint can have a negative impact on knee function and life quality. Some of the most common reasons to undergo surgery are:

Chronic Kneecap Dislocation
Maltracking can cause knee pain
Ineffective conservative treatments (e.g. bracing or physiotherapy).
The anatomy of the knee: structural abnormalities

Early intervention can reduce the risk for patellofemoral osteoarthritis.

Diagnosis Before Surgery

To determine if realignment is the best solution, a thorough diagnosis is necessary. Evaluations typically include:

Physical Examination of Knee Movement and Stability
X rays for assessing kneecap alignment
MRI scan for identifying soft tissue damage
CT scan for checking bone structure abnormalities

These results will be used by the orthopedic surgeon to determine the best surgical strategy.

Treatment Plan For Patellar Realignment Surgery

1. Pre-operative preparation

Patients undergo the following:

Medical imaging and evaluation
Stopping certain medications
Strengthening muscles before surgery (prehab).
Make lifestyle adjustments to prepare for mobility limitations after surgery

To reduce the risk of surgery, patients are advised to stop smoking and to manage any health conditions that they may have (such as diabetes or hypertension).

2. The Surgical Procedure

The surgeon can use one or more techniques depending on the type and severity of the misalignment.

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) Reconstruction

Replace or tighten the ligament that stabilizes the kneecap.
This is often used to treat recurrent patellar dysfunction.

Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy (TTO)

Screws are used to move and fix the tibial tubeercle in a more advantageous position.
Re-aligns the patellar tendon, and helps to track the kneecap.

Lateral release

Release the tight lateral structures that are pulling out the kneecap.
MPFL reconstruction is often combined.

The surgery is performed under spinal or general anesthesia, and usually takes 1-2 hours.

3. Post-operative care

After surgery, it is important to follow the right care plan for a successful recovery. Care plans typically include:

Pain Management with Medication
Use of a brace for the initial immobilization
Ice Therapy To Reduce Swelling
Keep the leg elevated for fluid retention

Depending on the surgery performed, patients may need crutches from 2 to 6 weeks.

4. Physiotherapy Rehabilitation

The rehabilitation process begins within days of surgery and is crucial to restoring functionality. These stages include:

Early phase (0-6 weeks).

Gentle range-of-motion exercises
Muscle activation (quadriceps strength)
Weight-bearing controlled

Mid Phase (6-12 weeks)

Progress to full weight bearing
Resistance Exercises
Stationary cycling

Late Phase (3-6 months)

Sport-specific training
Exercises involving agility and plyometrics
Return to full activity after surgeon’s clearance

A guided physiotherapy program can have a positive impact on recovery.

Benefits Of Patellar Realignment Surgery

Improvements in knee stability and alignment
Reduced kneecap Pain
Reduced risk of future dislocations
Mobility and improved quality of life
Preventing long-term knee osteoarthritis

Complications and Risks

There are risks associated with all surgeries, including:

Infection
Blood Clots
Hardware irritation (screws and pins)
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Rare cases of patellar fractur

These risks can be greatly reduced by choosing a highly-skilled orthopedic surgeon and following the post-op protocols.

What Makes A Good Candidate for a Job?

Patellar realignment surgery is recommended for:

Patients with chronic dislocations
People with malalignment due to trauma or congenital causes
Patients who do not respond to conservative treatment
The knee stability of athletes or active individuals

The appropriateness of the surgery will be determined by a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation.

Conclusion

Patellar Realignment Surgery is a highly-effective solution for people who suffer from kneecap instability, dislocations and pain. Most patients can return to a normal active lifestyle with the help of personalized rehabilitation plans and advances in surgical techniques.

Consult a qualified orthopedist if you or someone else you know has persistent patellar issues to determine if realignment surgery would be the best option.