Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction

A dislocated or unstable kneecap can make everyday movement feel unpredictable. Novant Health orthopedic and sports medicine specialists offer medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction to help stabilize the knee and support a return to the activities you enjoy. Our team guides you through every step, from diagnosis to recovery, with a plan built around your injury and goals.

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What is MPFL reconstruction?

MPFL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the medial patellofemoral ligament, a band of tissue that helps hold the kneecap in place. When this ligament is torn or stretched, the kneecap can slip out of position, a problem known as patellar instability or patellar dislocation.

During the procedure, an orthopedic surgeon uses a graft, which is tissue taken from another part of your body or a donor, to replace the damaged ligament. This helps restore stability so the kneecap tracks properly during movement.

Your physician may recommend MPFL reconstruction if you've experienced a kneecap dislocation, especially if it happens more than once, or if nonsurgical treatments haven't resolved your symptoms.

Common reasons for MPFL reconstruction

You may need MPFL reconstruction if you're dealing with kneecap instability that affects your daily activities or athletic performance. Common reasons include:

A first-time patellar dislocation with significant ligament damage
Recurrent patellar dislocation or a kneecap that repeatedly slips out of place
Ongoing patellar instability that limits movement or causes discomfort
An MPFL tear confirmed through imaging
Continued instability after nonsurgical treatment
Participation in sports or activities that require a stable, reliable knee

Your care team will review your symptoms, imaging and activity level to determine if MPFL reconstruction is the right option for you.

Treatment options (surgical and nonsurgical)

Treatment for patellar instability depends on the severity of your symptoms and how many times your kneecap has dislocated. Options include:

Nonsurgical

Bracing, activity modification and physical therapy are often tried first after an initial dislocation.

Surgical

MPFL repair, which reattaches the existing ligament in certain cases
MPFL reconstruction, which uses a graft to rebuild the damaged ligament and restore stability
MPFL reconstruction combined with other procedures when additional structural issues, such as bone alignment, contribute to instability

Your orthopedic surgeon will help you understand which approach fits your specific injury and goals, including whether surgery is recommended for a child or adolescent with an MPFL injury.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Recovery from MPFL reconstruction takes time, and your care team will guide you through each stage. Your rehabilitation plan may include:

A period of limited weight bearing or bracing to protect the knee as it heals
Gradual reintroduction of movement and range-of-motion exercises
Physical therapy focused on rebuilding strength, flexibility and stability around the knee
A structured return to daily activities and, eventually, sports, based on your progress

Recovery time varies from person to person, and your physical therapy team will adjust your plan as you heal. Your surgeon will let you know what to expect at each follow-up visit.

Risks and considerations

As with any surgery, MPFL reconstruction carries some risks, including infection, stiffness, graft-related complications or continued instability in rare cases. Your surgical team takes steps to help minimize these risks and will monitor your recovery closely.

Before your procedure, your care team will walk you through what to expect, answer your questions and make sure you feel prepared and informed about your treatment plan.

Conditions we treat

Our expert team delivers expert care for a wide range of sports and activity-related injuries and conditions.

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Why treatment is important

An unstable kneecap can limit your mobility and make it harder to stay active in daily life or sports. Treating patellar instability, when needed, can help restore confidence in your knee's stability and support a return to comfortable movement. Your care team is here to help you find the right path forward.

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