Arthroscopic medial retinacular imbrication for the treatment of recurrent patellar instability: a simple and all-inside technique.

Abstract

Proximal soft tissue realignment is the main surgical intervention for recurrent patellar instability. In recent years, all-inside arthroscopic procedures or mini-open surgeries have replaced traditional surgeries, which have more associated morbidity and poor cosmetic results. This article describes a simple and all-inside arthroscopic technique for the operative treatment of recurrent patellar instability. Using 2 epidural needles in several steps and no accessory portals required, the medial patellar retinaculum is imbricated to the desired tension. The combination of lateral release and medial retinacular placation obviously improves the patellar tracking compared with preoperatively.