Lateral retinacular release is not recommended in association to MPFL reconstruction in recurrent patellar dislocation

Forty-three patients with recurrent patellar dislocation and scheduled for a medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction were randomized to receive an accompanying lateral retinacular release (LRR) or no accompanying procedure. The primary outcome of interest was the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score at 12 months post-operation. The secondary outcome of interest was patellar tilt, measured with the quadriceps relaxed and the quadriceps contracted. Results revealed no significant differences between the LRR group and control group in the subjective IKDC score at 12 months, as well as patellar tilt with the quadriceps relaxed and contracted.