Effectiveness of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in young athletes with chronic patellar instability

Background: Recurrent patellofemoral dislocation in athletic adolescents can lead to chronic instability and osteoarthritis. This prospective cohort study evaluates the functional outcomes and complications of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using an autologous gracilis tendon graft in 22 adolescent patients. Methods: 22 patients (mean age 13.86 years) underwent physeal-sparing MPFL reconstruction with a double-diameter patellar tunnel. Knee function was assessed pre- and post-surgery using Kujala and Tegner-Lysholm scales, alongside the Oxford Knee Score. Conclusion: MPFL reconstruction using an autologous gracilis tendon graft is an effective and safe procedure for adolescent patellar instability, yielding significant functional improvements and high patient satisfaction with minimal complications.