New outpatient treatment of recurrent patellar dislocations.

From December 1987 through February 1991, outpatient arthroscopic procedures were done on patients experiencing recurrent dislocations of the patella. A modified Emslie-Trillat procedure was used. Twenty-four patients (27 knees) were available for follow-up. Using the criteria of Cox, excellent results were found in 78% (21 knees), whereas 18% (5 knees) were rated as good. Only 4% (1 knee) was considered fair, and none were rated poor. Most patients (96%) showed improvement. No patient suffered a postoperative dislocation. Based upon the findings of this study, it is concluded that this procedure is an effective method of treatment for patients having recurrent dislocations of the patella.