Patellar Instability Treatment In
Dubai
The kneecap, the patella, is vital in extending your knee. It’s called patellar instability when the patella misaligns or moves out of its groove in the thighbone.
This instability can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty with activities. Sometimes, kneecap stabilization surgery might be necessary to restore proper patellar tracking and function.
Understanding Patellar Instability
Patellar instability can be caused by various factors, including:
- Anatomical abnormalities: A shallow groove in the thighbone (trochlear dysplasia) or misaligned ligaments (ligament laxity) can contribute to patellar instability.
- Muscle imbalances: Weak quadriceps muscles or tight hamstrings can affect patellar tracking.
- Injury: A blow to the knee or a forceful twisting movement can dislocate the patella or damage surrounding structures.
Symptoms of patellar instability can include:
- Pain around the kneecap
- Feeling like the kneecap is catching, popping, or giving way
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Swelling and bruising around the knee
When is Kneecap Stabilization Surgery Recommended?
Conservative treatment, such as physical therapy, bracing, and pain medication, is often the first line of defence for patellar instability.
However, surgery might be considered if:
Conservative treatment fails:
After a dedicated attempt at conservative treatment, instability persists, impacting daily activities or causing ongoing pain.
Frequent dislocations:
Repeated patellar dislocations can damage surrounding structures and increase the risk of future problems.
Athletic demands:
Athletes requiring a rapid return to high-impact sports that demand exceptional knee stability might benefit from surgery.
Kneecap Stabilization Surgery Procedure
Kneecap stabilization surgery is typically an arthroscopic procedure performed under general or regional anesthesia. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction:
Repairing or reconstructing the ligament on the inner side of the kneecap to provide better support.
Arthroscopy:
A miniature camera is introduced into the joint to observe the patella and its neighboring structures and assess the degree of instability.
Addressing the cause:
Depending on the cause of instability, the surgeon might perform various techniques such as:
Lateral retinacular release:
Tightening the ligament on the outer side of the kneecap to improve patellar tracking.
Incisions:
The surgeon makes small incisions around the knee to access the joint.
Bony procedures:
In some cases, realignment of the bony structures around the patella might be necessary.
Closure:
The incisions are closed with stitches.
What is the recovery after Patella Stabilization Surgery?
Following patella stabilization surgery, which is typically conducted under general anesthesia, patients may also receive a nerve block to alleviate post-operative pain.
This nerve block involves an injection that numbs the nerves surrounding the knee, aiding in pain management.
Most individuals spend one night in the hospital after surgery before being discharged the next day.
During this time, patients are supported with crutches to assist in walking and are encouraged to put weight on the operated leg. A knee splint may also be provided for added support during the initial 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
Patients are permitted to bend and straighten their knees. Before discharge, a physiotherapist ensures they are proficient in using crutches and instructs them on simple knee exercises to perform at home.
In the initial six weeks following surgery, the primary objectives are to reduce swelling and restore the range of motion in the knee.
Subsequently, rehabilitation focuses on strengthening the quadriceps muscles and enhancing balance and coordination.
For patients who underwent a tibial tubercle osteotomy, X-rays are taken at the six-week mark to monitor healing progress.
Around the 3-4 month mark, rehabilitation transitions towards preparing for a return to complete sporting activities.
This phase involves additional strengthening exercises and functional training to facilitate optimal recovery and readiness for resuming regular physical activities.
Throughout the recovery journey, close supervision by healthcare professionals ensures patients progress safely and effectively toward their rehabilitation goals.
Benefits and Risks of Kneecap Stabilization Surgery
Benefits:
Improved patellar tracking and stability
Reduced pain and swelling
Enhanced function and ability to return to activities
Risks:
Infection
Bleeding
Stiffness
Damage to nerves or blood vessels
Failure of the repair or reconstruction
Choose Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb for Kneecap Stabilization Surgery in Dubai
Dr. Hesham Al- Khateeb, is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee procedures in Dubai.
He possesses extensive experience in performing intricate primary and revision surgeries for hips and knees, along with managing sports-related injuries.
Trained at prestigious institutions such as the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London and the University of Western in Canada, Dr. Al-Khateeb brings a wealth of experience to his practice.
Noteworthy is his recognition with the NHS Innovation Award in 2007 for developing “The Guard for Bone Collection,” a revolutionary device for bone procedures.
Dr. Al-Khateeb is fully trained in hip and knee trauma surgery and sports medicine, with additional fellowships in the USA, Germany, and Canada. He holds the FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine and specializes in complex knee replacement surgery, hip replacements, and robotic and navigated knee and hip replacement surgery.
His expertise also extends to sports medicine injuries, including ACL reconstruction, meniscal repair, stem cell therapy, PRP therapy, and cartilage reconstruction.
Choose Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb for advanced, compassionate care and superior outcomes in kneecap stabilization surgery in Dubai.
