plantaris tendon autograft can restore patellar stability in adolescent medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: a technical note

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction is a standard treatment option for patients with patellar instability. the main purpose of this study was to determine whether isolated anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using double folded, four-strand plantaris tendon autograft restores patellar stability in adolescent patients. plantaris tendon autografts were harvested through proximal approach and used in four adolescent patients. a four-strand autograft was prepared in a double-limbed configuration and fixed on the patella and the femur with suture anchors and interference screws, respectively. the mean kujala score improved significantly from 44 ± 24 sd (range, 19 to 69) points preoperatively to 94 ± 10 sd (range, 78 to 100) points postoperatively (p< 0.001). all patients reported excellent subjective outcomes and returned to their pre-injury level of sporting activities. the use of a four-strand plantaris tendon autograft in isolated anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstructi on can restore patellar stability in adolescents. level of evidence: iv