What should you know about open MPFL reconstruction?

The medial patellofemoral ligament, or MPFL, helps guide the kneecap and resist movement toward the outside of the knee. Repeated [Patellar Dislocation](/conditions/patellar-dislocation/) can stretch or damage this ligament. During open reconstruction, the surgeon uses a graft to create a new ligament and secures it between the kneecap and thighbone using fixation devices. The operation may be combined with treatment for bone alignment, cartilage injury, or another structural problem. Stability is the goal, but swelling, stiffness, weakness, and altered kneecap movement can remain while tissues heal.

Arrange crutches, transport, and help with stairs and household tasks. Tell the surgical team about medicines, allergies, previous dislocations, and knee locking or swelling. After surgery, use the brace and weight-bearing instructions exactly as prescribed. Early rehabilitation usually focuses on swelling control, safe knee movement, and activating the thigh muscles; later work builds strength, balance, and confidence. Do not pivot, kneel, run, or return to jumping until your surgeon and physiotherapist have cleared those activities. Review the procedure details at [MPFL Reconstruction](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/mpfl-reconstruction/).

Seek urgent advice for a new kneecap displacement, an inability to straighten the knee, rapidly increasing swelling, severe calf pain or swelling, a cold or numb foot, fever, or drainage and spreading redness around the incision. Sudden chest pain or breathlessness requires emergency care. Keep the leg supported and avoid trying to force a dislocated kneecap back into place.

Why is reconstruction recommended, and are alignment or cartilage procedures also needed? What are my brace, weight-bearing, driving, and work instructions? Which movement milestones must I reach before returning to sport?