Efficacy of lateral retinacular release for painful bipartite patella.

We treated painful bipartite patella with a modified lateral retinacular release technique in 15 patients (16 knees). Bony union of the separated fragment and the patella was obtained in 15 of 16 knees within 8 months of surgery. Sustained traction acting on the patella laterally and proximally is presumed to cause the pain. The surgical technique to reduce this force proved effective not only in relieving the pain but also in achieving bony union. Painful bipartite patella can lead to excessive lateral pressure syndrome or patellar compression syndrome, these complications can be effectively treated by this surgical technique. In contrast to conventional treatments, such as excision of smaller fragments or osteosynthesis to achieve bony union, the modified lateral retinacular release technique is easy to perform and provides an effective means for relieving patellofemoral pain and achieving bony union.