Patellofemoral Instability Realignment Procedures in Chillicothe, OH
A realignment procedure may be recommended when a bone or joint moves out of its normal alignment. Realignment procedures are commonly used to treat recurrent or patellofemoral instability that has failed conservative management.
What is Patellofemoral Instability?
The patella (kneecap) is attached to the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) by tendons. It fits into a groove at the end of the femur and slides up and down when the knee bends and straightens.
Patellofemoral instability is when your patella or kneecap moves out of its normal alignment in the knee. It can be caused by a trauma (traumatic patellar dislocation) or through daily activities (chronic patellar instability). In a traumatic patellar dislocation, the patella is pushed completely out of the groove. With chronic patellar instability, the patella usually only comes partially out of the groove. This is also known as subluxation.
Patellofemoral instability causes pain when standing up and the feeling that the knee may buckle. It may also cause swelling, bruising, deformity, numbness, and loss of function of the knee.
Patellofemoral (Kneecap) Instability Diagnosis and Treatment
Patellofemoral instability is typically diagnosed through a medical history, physical examination, X-rays and MRIs.
Some patients may opt to treat their patellar instability through a knee brace, pain medications, rest, ice or physical therapy. Surgical treatment is usually advised when there has been no improvement after more conservative treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen utilizes the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state of the art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience help ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Types of Patella Realignment Procedures
Surgical realignment procedures are generally performed using the arthroscopic-assisted approach; that is, through a minimally invasive surgical procedure utilizing a tiny camera and specially designed instruments that can fit through tiny incisions.
There are two main types of realignment procedures:
- Proximal realignment procedures – Structures that limit the movements on the outside of the patella are lengthened or ligaments on the inside of the patella are shortened or reconstructed with allograft tissue.
- Distal realignment procedures – The angle between the hips and knees is decreased by moving the tibial tubercle towards the inner side of the knee. The tibial tubercle is the bony bump on the tibia below the knee cap. This is where the patellar ligaments, tendons and muscles are attached.
In severe cases of malalignment, a tibial tubercle transfer or osteotomy is performed. In this procedure, Dr. Cohen will remove a section of the bone where the patellar tendon attaches to the tibia. The bony section is shifted, properly aligned with the patella and reattached using screws.
Patellofemoral Realignment Potential Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with realignment procedures. Dr. Cohen will discuss each of the risks with you and take measures to help avoid any potential complications.
Possible risks and complications associated with realignment procedures include:
- Recurrent dislocations or subluxations
- Loss of ability to extend the knee
- Persistent pain
- Arthrofibrosis (thick fibrous material around the joint)
- Injuries to vessels and nerves
- Infection
- Blood clots
Dr. Cohen and his team are careful to monitor a patient’s health and activity levels both before and after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Dr. Cohen utilizes the latest in technology to do this. He has partnered with Prescribe FIT to optimize his patients preoperatively and empower his patients with a simple and effective way to lower their risk of complications from surgery. In addition, he utilizes the Recupe sensor from Plethy to monitor compliance with home exercise programs and range of motion recovery.
Surgical Realignment Results
Surgical realignment procedures are an effective way to deal with patellar instability. The success of the surgical procedure is dependent on a number of factors, including the patient’s active participation in their rehabilitation program. Most patients are highly satisfied with the results of their realignment procedures.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Do you think your patella may be out of alignment? To learn more, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, who has treated over 100,000 patients worldwide and has extensive experience with realignment procedures. Call or email his office today.
