Comparing two methods for knee ligament reconstruction

Comparison of Two Graft Choices in Mediale Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction (MPFL) - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

NA · Aarhus University Hospital · NCT05706363

This study is testing two different surgical methods for fixing a knee ligament to see which one helps young people with chronic patellar dislocation feel more stable and have less pain after surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorAarhus University Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Aarhus N)
Trial IDNCT05706363 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare two surgical techniques for reconstructing the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) to treat chronic patellar dislocation. One technique uses a gracilis graft with screw fixation, while the other employs quadriceps tendon grafts with anchor fixation. The study will evaluate which method offers better stability, less postoperative pain, and a lower rate of patellar reluxation. Patients aged 15 to 40 with a history of lateral patellar dislocation will be included in the trial.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 15 to 40 with a history of chronic lateral patellar dislocation.

Not a fit: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis, significant osteoarthritis, or previous knee ligament surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced pain for patients with chronic patellar dislocation.

How similar studies have performed: While similar surgical techniques have been explored, this specific comparison of graft choices in MPFL reconstruction is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients between 15 and 40 years of age with chronic tendency to lateral patellar dislocation (defined as 2 or more verified dislocation cases)
* The growth zones must be found closed - verified by MRI scan

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with known rheumatoid arthritis.
* Patients with arthroscopically detected osteoarthritis (grade 3 cartilage lesion)
* Inability to follow a normal rehabilitation regime.
* Previous ligament surgery in injured knees.

Where this trial is running

Aarhus N

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Patellar Dislocation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.