Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction reduces radiographic measures of patella alta in adults

Background:Patellar height has long been considered a risk factor for patellofemoral instability. However, recent pediatric literature demonstrated a reduction in patellar height measurements following medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction.Purpose:To assess the mean change in patellar height and the percentage of skeletally mature patients with patellar height ratios reduced to within-normal limits following MPFL reconstruction.Study Design:Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:Adult patients undergoing primary MPFL reconstruction for recurrent lateral patellar instability between 2005 and 2013 were identified. Pre- and postoperative (within 1 year of surgery) lateral knee radiographs were assessed for patellar height indices, including Caton-Deschamps, Blackburne-Peel, and Insall-Salvati ratios. The change in patellar height and the number of patients reduced from abnormal to normal patellar height ratios following MPFL reconstruction were assessed.Results:Overall, 32 adult patients we...