Sven Putnis offers expert patella stabilisation surgery in Bristol, including MPFL reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy for recurrent dislocations.Sven Putnis offers expert patella stabilisation surgery in Bristol, including MPFL reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy for recurrent dislocations.
The patella (kneecap) sits within a groove at the front of the knee, known as the trochlea. Together they form the patellofemoral joint. A dislocation occurs when the kneecap is forced entirely out of this groove. While a first-time dislocation is often successfully managed with conservative physiotherapy, recurrent dislocations or chronic instability require surgical intervention. Sven Putnis provides comprehensive, evidence-based management for patellar instability, utilising advanced imaging and highly individualised surgical plans to restore stability and prevent long-term damage to the joint cartilage.
Who Is This For?
First 2 weeks
The most important aspects of the initial recovery are controlling swelling in the knee, preventing muscle wasting, and working towards regaining full range of knee motion
Usually, no. The majority of first-time patellar dislocations are treated successfully without surgery. A period of rest in a brace followed by a dedicated physiotherapy programme to strengthen the surrounding muscles is often enough to restore stability. The ruptured MPFL usually heals well. Surgery is generally reserved for those who experience recurrent dislocations.
The Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) is a band of tissue on the inside of the knee that acts as a tether, preventing the kneecap from sliding too far to the outside. It is always torn during a dislocation but usually heals. Reconstructing it is the most reliable way to restore primary stability to the kneecap after recurrent dislocations.
Recovery is a gradual process. You will likely need to wear a brace and use crutches for the first few weeks. Driving is usually possible around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, depending on which leg was operated on. A full return to sports and strenuous activities typically requires 6 to 9 months of dedicated physiotherapy.
During the final phases of skeletal development the patella can end resting higher in the trochlea groove. This is a normal variant but puts the patella at an increased risk of dislocation and the development of osteoarthritis. A Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy pulls the patella tendon down and in turn allows the patella to sit stable in its groove throughout full range of motion.
Yes. While the arthroscopy uses very small keyhole incisions, the MPFL reconstruction requires small incisions on the side of the knee to secure the new ligament. If a Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy is performed, a slightly larger incision is required on the front of the shin to reposition the bone.
While no surgery carries a 100% guarantee, modern stabilisation techniques are highly successful. Studies show that when an MPFL reconstruction is performed on correctly selected patients, the risk of a recurrent dislocation is exceptionally low, typically falling below 2% 1.
Recovery Time
4–6 months (for full return to sport)
Success Rate
Very high (recurrent dislocation rate <2% for MPFL reconstruction)
Book a consultation to discuss if this treatment is right for you.
Book your consultation today and begin your journey to recovery with expert knee care in Bristol.
