MPFL Reconstruction with TTT Versus TTT Alone for Recurrent Patella Instability: Five Year Results of a Randomized Control Trial

PURPOSE: Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is increasingly used to restore the primary ligamentous restraint to patella dislocation. The purpose of this randomised controlled trial is to compare the 5 year results of the addition of autograft MPFL reconstruction to tibial tubercle transfer (TTT) and lateral release (LR) (reconstruction group) to TTT and LR alone (control group) for recurrent patella dislocation. METHODS: Thirty-four patients (36 knees) were randomised to two groups. Two patients in the control group (TTT + LR) and three patients in the reconstruction group (MPFL + TTT + LR) group were lost to follow up at 5 years. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in Kujala and Tegner scores or “insecurity” Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at any time period. There was a trend to a lower average VAS in the reconstruction group at six weeks but also poorer average flexion. There were no significant differences in time to return to school, work or sports. Quantitative CT scans showed the reconstruction group had a significant improvement in average patella tilt (6 degrees vs -8 degrees, p = 0.03) and average congruence angle (13 degrees vs -11 degrees, p = 0.03) in the quadriceps contracted state. At 5 years the MPFL/TTT reconstruction group had a lower revision rate (2/17) compared to the control group of TTT alone (5/16). CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent an MPFL reconstruction in addition to a TTT had a comparatively significant improved patella congruence on quantitative CT Scan. At 5 years the MPFL/TTT reconstruction group had a lower but non significant revision rate compared to the control group of TTT alone.