Patella Misalignment Due to Trochlear Dysplasia: Level III Case Study
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Fisnik Isufi
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Athletic Training
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Nicole Lowy
Abstract:
The trochlea is a groove at the distal end of the femur, where the patella sits. It is easiest to identify when bending the knee. The posterior part of the patella should be almost parallel to the trochlear groove, but there are chances of abnormalities within the trochlear groove. The normal shape of the trochlea groove is concave. The lateral side of the trochlea groove is higher than the medial part. This allows the patella to easily slide down the central section of the distal femur. The abnormal shape of the trochlea groove is convex or flat, which is known as trochlear dysplasia or an unstable kneecap. When treating trochlear dysplasia, it’s essential to create a rehabilitation plan that will focus on strengthening the quadricep muscles to help reduce that patellar instability, or a possible patellar dislocation. In more severe cases, some surgical approaches include a reconstruction of the dysplastic trochlea, or a medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction. Trochleoplasty aims to reshape the bony anatomy of the trochlea, by either deepening the groove or elevating it, since the lateral wall of the trochlea should be higher than the medial side.