Understanding factors affecting recovery after knee ligament surgery

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction in patients with recurrent patellar instability. It will collect data on various risk factors that may contribute to recurrent instability following the surgery, as well as functional outcomes reported by patients. Participants aged 10-35 will complete surveys about their knee function and activity levels one and two years post-surgery. The study is conducted by a group of experienced patellofemoral surgeons across the United States.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 10-35 years old
* Recurrent patellar instability with at least one episode defined as either (1) a dislocated patella requiring reduction in the emergency department or (2) a convincing history for dislocation, associated with full giving way, and the following physical findings: (a) hemarthrosis or effusion, (b) tenderness along the medial retinaculum, and (c) apprehension when laterally directed force was applied to the patella or (3) MRI-documented dislocation with associated bone bruises

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous ipsilateral knee surgery
* Obligatory/fixed/habitual patella dislocation or subluxation
* Unloadable inferior or lateral chondral damage on the patella that would require a tibial tubercle transfer for unloading purposes
* Pathologic tibiofemoral instability

Where it's running

• Stanford University
  Redwood City, California, United States Recruiting
• University of Florida
  Gainesville, Florida, United States Recruiting
• Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush
  Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
• University of Iowa
  Iowa City, Iowa, United States Recruiting
• Massachusetts General Hospital
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
• Boston Children's Hospital
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Beth Shubin Stein, MD — Hospital for Special Surgery, New York
• Study coordinator: Simone Gruber
• Email: grubers@hss.edu
• Phone: 646-797-8947

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Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.