Arthroscopic patellar "bankart" repair after acute dislocation

We present a case of acute patellar dislocation in a skeletally immature patient treated with arthroscopic medial patellofemoral ligamentous complex repair using suture anchors with a horizontal mattress suture technique. Patellar dislocation is a common problem in the skeletally immature. Treatment is controversial for first-time dislocators because of the high rate of recurrent instability and functional disability in these patients. Surgical repair of the medial restraints may decrease recurrent instability, although anterior knee pain and crepitus is a common finding after open surgical techniques. Arthroscopic medial retinacular imbrication has been described for patients with persistent instability with good short-term results. Acute dislocations may cause avulsion of the medial patellofemoral ligamentous complex from the patella; this is amenable to direct primary repair to prevent recurrent instability and avoid the morbidity of open surgery. This technique recreates normal anatomy and function with minimally invasive surgery. © 2005 by the Arthroscopy Association of North America.