CPT® Code 27425

An open lateral retinacular release is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting the misalignment of the patella, commonly known as the kneecap. This misalignment can lead to pain and functional limitations in the knee joint. The procedure involves making a longitudinal incision on the outer side of the patella, which extends from the upper pole of the patella down to Gerdy's tubercle, a bony prominence on the tibia. The incision allows access to the lateral retinaculum, a fibrous band that helps stabilize the patella. During the surgery, a subcutaneous flap is created to expose the lateral retinaculum, which is then incised longitudinally. This incision is made from the vastus medialis muscle, located on the inner thigh, to a point just below Gerdy's tubercle. The surgeon evaluates the mobility of the patella throughout the procedure, and if necessary, further dissection is performed to enhance patellar movement. The deep retinacular tissue may also be incised to facilitate this mobility. Once adequate patellar mobility is achieved, the medial layer of the deep retinaculum is sutured to the lateral edge of the superficial retinaculum, effectively stabilizing the patella in its corrected position.