Arthroscopic medial capsular plication using the suture anchor technique.

PURPOSE

The suture anchor technique for medial capsular plication has been previously described. We present our technique and its medium-term results.

METHODS

A single surgeon's experience (senior author) of the suture anchor technique for medial capsular plication was reviewed in 14 knees in 14 patients. All patients underwent arthroscopic stabilisation for patello-femoral instability. The method used was the suture anchor technique for medial capsular plication (full technique described in paper). The primary outcome measure used was further dislocation or instability. The validated Kujala score was used pre- and post-op to assess functional outcome.

RESULTS

There were nine male and five female patients (M:F, 64%:34%). Median age was 25 (range 16-65). Mean follow-up was 52 months (95% CI 44-56 range 24-72). The mean pre-op Kujala score was 54.6 (SD 24.4). The mean post-op Kujala score was 78.2 (SD 20.5). The mean increase in Kujala score was 23.6 (95% CI 7.9-39.4). There was a statistically significant increase in Kujala score, P=0.006. Only 1 of 14 patients had a further dislocation (7%), and there were no further episodes of instability.

CONCLUSION

This is the first paper to describe the results of this technique in the literature. There was a statistically significant improvement in the patients' functional outcome and 13/14 patients did not re-dislocate or experience instability. It was concluded that this technique is a successful mode of treatment for patello-femoral instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series, Level IV.