Patellofemoral instability in the adolescent age group

Abstract

The aim of this review is to outline risk factors, clinical findings, radiological work-up, and management of patellofemoral instability in the paediatric patient population. Patellofemoral instability is a common condition affecting both children and adolescents. In acute patellar dislocations, unless there is an accompanying osteochondral fracture, the treatment strategy is mostly nonoperative. However, patients at risk for repeat episodes should be defined and counselled. In recurrent dislocations, underlying pathoanatomic risk factors should be well defined, and surgical treatment should be planned accordingly.