Lateral release surgery for patellar tracking disorder

Content provided by Healthwise

Lateral release surgery for patellar tracking disorder

One cause of patellar tracking disorder is a tight lateral retinaculum, a ligament complex that anchors the outer edge of the patella. See an illustration of the ligaments of the knee .

If your patella is being pulled to the side by a tight lateral retinaculum, a surgeon may recommend a lateral release. This procedure, performed arthroscopically, cuts the lateral retinaculum.

Lateral release surgery is appropriate for only a small fraction of people with patellar tracking disorder, and may be used more often than is necessary.¹ Before considering this surgery, first treat your knee problem with a few months of stretching and strengthening exercises, along with rest from aggravating activities. You and your health professional will want to be absolutely certain that your patellar problem is severe enough to merit surgery and that it is not due to other common causes of patellar tracking disorder.

References

Print Email SHARE

Citations
Juhn MS (1999). Patellofemoral pain syndrome: A review and guidelines for treatment. American Family Physician, 60(7): 2012–2018.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma
Last Updated	February 14, 2008

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	February 14, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.