Patellar Instability Treatment Guidelines

Treatment depends on whether the instability is acute or chronic, the severity, and individual risk factors. Most first-time dislocations are treated conservatively with immobilization, PT, and bracing. Surgery is considered for recurrent instability or acute injuries with osteochondral fractures.

Surgical stabilization procedures like MPFL reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy have good success rates in reducing recurrent instability.

Recovery time varies but most patients return to normal activities in 2-3 months after a first-time patellar dislocation treated conservatively. Return to sports may take 3-4 months. Recovery after surgical stabilization is longer, typically 6-12 months.