Plantaris Tendon Autograft Can Restore Patellar Stability in Adolescent Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Technical Note

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is a standard treatment option for patients with patellar instability. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether isolated anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using double folded, four-strand plantaris tendon autograft restores patellar stability in adolescent patients. Plantaris tendon autografts were harvested through proximal approach and used in four adolescent patients. A four-strand autograft was prepared in a double-limbed configuration and fixed on the patella and the femur with suture anchors and interference screws, respectively. The mean Kujala score improved significantly from ۴۴ ± ۲۴ SD (range, ۱۹ to ۶۹) points preoperatively to ۹۴ ± ۱۰ SD (range, ۷۸ to ۱۰۰) points postoperatively (P< ۰.۰۰۱). All patients reported excellent subjective outcomes and returned to their pre-injury level of sporting activities. The use of a four-strand plantaris tendon autograft in isolated anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstructi on can restore patellar stability in adolescents. Level of evidence: IV