MPFL Reconstruction in the Pediatric Population: Does Skeletal Maturity Matter?

Objectives: Patellar instability requiring medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFL) in the pediatric population poses a challenge in that the isometric point of femoral fixation (Schottle’s point) is in close proximity to the distal physis. As a result, various alternative fixation techniques have been described to avoid physeal damage, however the consequences of this are unclear. Continued growth and altered graft mechanics in the growing child are areas of concern. The objective of the current study was to evaluate short to midterm outcomes, including redislocation rates, following MPFL reconstruction in skeletally immature versus mature pediatric patients.