Editorial Commentary: Two Fixation Points Are Better for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction-To Minimize Complications, Bone Tunnels Should Be Avoided.

Overview

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction has gained in popularity over the past 15 years, with most studies showing a clear advantage over techniques such as MPFL repair or medial imbrication for the treatment of patellar instability. A debate continues as to the type of fixation on the patella, tunnel versus suture anchor, as well as the number of fixation points. In fact, some senior patellofemoral surgeons have opted away from patellar bony fixation altogether to avoid complications associated with patellar fixation such as fracture or penetration of the articular cartilage. In my practice, I prefer to use 2 all-suture suture anchors for patellar fixation as there is minimal risk of fracture or significant cartilage damage compared with tunnel drilling or placement of larger suture anchors. The graft choice for MPFL reconstruction has been shown to be relatively unimportant, and for this reason, I typically choose gracilis allograft to avoid graft-site morbidity and hamstring weakness.

Arthroscopy : the journal of arthroscopic & related surgery : official publication of the Arthroscopy Association of North America and the International Arthroscopy Association Journal