The accurate assessment and management of the unstable patellofemoral joint depends on knowledge of the anatomy and stabilizing structures. Surgery should not be considered until non-operative interventions have failed and the recurrent nature of the disease has resulted in functional impairment. The surgical strategy should, whenever possible, aim to restore normal anatomy rather than introduce new abnormalities. Often a combination of surgical techniques is required.
Neil Upadhyay MRCS (Eng) Specialist Registrar, Department of Orthopaedics, Bristol Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Bristol, Bristol, UK
Charles Wakeley FRCS FRCR Consultant Radiologist, Department of Radiology, Bristol Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Bristol, Bristol, UK
Jonathan D J Eldridge FRCS (Orth) Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Department of Orthopaedics, Bristol Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Bristol, Bristol, UK