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Official Description

Reconstruction of dislocating patella; with patellectomy

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Reconstruction of a dislocating patella with patellectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing the instability of the patella, which can lead to recurrent dislocations. This procedure involves the removal of the patella, a bone that is crucial for knee function, particularly in terms of strength and movement. The surgery begins with a longitudinal incision that splits the tendon over the patella, allowing for careful dissection of the quadriceps tendon and patellar ligament from the bone. Once the patella is excised, the resulting defect is closed longitudinally. To mitigate the impact of patellectomy on knee function, the quadriceps muscle may be repositioned laterally and distally over the defect. This repositioning, known as plication, aims to enhance the angle of insertion of the quadriceps muscle at the sagittal plane, which is essential for maintaining strength and function in the knee following the removal of the patella. This procedure is particularly relevant for patients experiencing chronic patellar dislocation, as it seeks to restore stability and improve overall knee mechanics.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

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