Clinical Trials

The purpose of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of (1) non-operative treatment, (2) isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, and (3) ‘à la carte’ surgical approach to treat patellar instability. Enrollment will take place over one year at 12 sports centers. Outcomes would be assessed at 6, 12, 24 and 60 months, including assessment of function, activity level, quality of life and complications.

The goal of this observational study is to learn about the outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction for the treatment of recurrent patellar instability. The main questions it aims to answer are:

* What are the risk factors for recurrent patellar instability after MPFL reconstruction?
* What functional outcomes do patients report after MPFL reconstruction?

Participants undergoing MPFL reconstruction will answer survey questions about their knee and activity level 1 year and 2 years after surgery.

The proposed study is a multi-center prospective cohort study to determine the most effective treatment of patellar instability. The principal investigators have identified surgeons who treat a high volume of patellar instability cases at various centers across the country. Invitations to participate in the study will be extended to these surgeons, along with the original members of the JUPITER study group.