Results and Factors Affecting Clinical Efficacy of Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Using a Gracilis Tendon Suture Technique

Background: This study evaluated the outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using a gracilis tendon suture technique for patients with patellar instability. Potential factors affecting clinical efficacy were also evaluated. Methods: This study included 22 patients diagnosed with patellar instability, who underwent MPFL reconstruction using a graci-lis tendon. Their mean age was 21.5 years (range, 15-48 years), and the mean follow-up period was 26.8 months (range, 12-66 months). Clinical evaluation included the determination of Kujala, Lysholm, and Tegner scores. Radiographic evaluation included changes in congruence angle and arthritic changes in the patellofemoral joint. Additionally, patients were examined for any com-plications, including recurrent dislocation. Factors affecting clinical efficacy were also evaluated.Results: All clinical scores improved at final follow-up. The mean congruence angle improved from 23.6 degrees before surgery to -6.5 degrees at final follow-up. Two of 15 patients developed osteoarthritic changes in the patellofemoral joint. Dislocation recurred in 2 pa-tients with type C trochlear dysplasia, which showed a statistically significant association with recurrent dislocation when com-pared to type A and B dysplasia (p = 0.026). Kujala scores were significantly lower among patients with abnormal patellar tilts (p = 0.038), and Lysholm scores were significantly lower among patients with femoral internal rotation deformity (p = 0.024).Conclusions: Satisfactory results were obtained after MPFL reconstruction using a gracilis tendon suture technique for patients with patellar instability. However, dislocation recurred in patients with type C trochlear dysplasia, and clinical efficacy was lower among patients with femoral internal rotation and patellar tilt.