Conditions / Kneecap instability
A kneecap that dislocates once will often do it again. The second time is avoidable.
The kneecap runs in a groove on the front of the thigh bone. If the groove is shallow, the kneecap sits too high, or the leg alignment pulls it outward, it can slip out. Each dislocation risks damaging cartilage. The first episode is usually managed without surgery; recurrent episodes usually are not.
Interactive procedure guide
Following the kneecap.
You can still switch views and read every explanation.
01 / Stable
Guided through the groove
The patella tracks over the front of the thighbone. Bone shape, alignment and soft-tissue restraints all contribute to stability.
The inner restraint connects the kneecap to the femur.
Explore the anatomy
Illustrative anatomy. Colours, movement and implants are simplified to explain the principle; they do not show a specific patient or predict an outcome.
Signs
- The kneecap visibly moving out of place, often on twisting
- Apprehension when the knee is pushed sideways
- Swelling after an episode
- Pain at the front of the knee on stairs
When surgery is, and is not, the answer
After a first dislocation, surgery is considered if there is a loose fragment of bone or cartilage, or if the anatomy strongly predicts recurrence.
After two or more dislocations, stabilisation is usually recommended because the risk of further damage rises with each episode.
How it is done
Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament, the check-rein on the inner side, is the core of most stabilisations.
Where the anatomy is the underlying cause, the operation is tailored: deepening the groove, moving the attachment of the patellar tendon, or correcting rotation of the thigh bone. Dr Catteeuw trained in this assessment at the Geneva Swiss Olympic Medical Center.
What recovery looks like
- Brace and crutches for the first two weeks
- Full bending by six weeks
- Running around three months, sport from four to six months
Timelines are typical ranges and are individualised. Progress is judged on strength and function, not dates.
Talk it through
If this sounds like your knee, contact Mediclinic to arrange a consultation with Dr Catteeuw. Bring any existing scans and reports so you can discuss the options together.
Other conditions
- Ligament injuriesACL, multi-ligament and anterolateral reconstruction
- MeniscusRepair first, remove only when repair is not possible
- CartilageRestoration and regenerative options
- Alignment and osteotomyFemoral and tibial osteotomy
- Arthritis and knee replacementPartial, robotic-assisted and total replacement