MPFL reconstruction is an operation used to stabilise the kneecap in people who experience recurrent patellar dislocations or ongoing kneecap instability. The important question is not simply whether your kneecap has dislocated, but why it happened and what is needed to prevent it happening again.
I offer specialist assessment and treatment of kneecap instability in adults, teenagers and young athletes in Reading, Berkshire and London, including private, insured and self-funding patients.
The medial patellofemoral ligament, or MPFL, is an important ligament on the inside of the knee that helps keep the kneecap stable.
It is commonly damaged when the kneecap dislocates.
In people with recurrent instability, an MPFL reconstruction creates a new ligament using a tendon graft to help guide and stabilise the kneecap as the knee bends and straightens.
MPFL reconstruction may be considered if your kneecap has dislocated repeatedly or continues to feel unstable despite appropriate rehabilitation.
Kneecap instability is particularly common in teenagers and young adults, and can make sport, exercise and sometimes everyday activities difficult or unpredictable.
Not everyone who has dislocated their kneecap needs surgery. Your history, examination and imaging all help determine whether an operation is appropriate.
Read more: Patellar instability and kneecap dislocation →
No.
There are several reasons why a kneecap may be unstable, including the shape and alignment of the knee and the position of the kneecap itself.
For some patients, an isolated MPFL reconstruction is an excellent solution. For others, additional or different treatment may be more appropriate.
Understanding the reason for your instability is therefore just as important as treating the damaged ligament.
I have a particular interest in treating kneecap dislocation and patellar instability in children, teenagers and young athletes.
Growing knees require additional consideration when planning surgery, and treatment needs to be tailored to the individual anatomy, skeletal maturity and sporting demands of each young person.
The aim is not simply to stop another dislocation, but to restore confidence in the knee and help the young person return safely to the activities and sport that matter to them.
Read more: Patellar instability in children →
Recurrent kneecap instability is not a one-size-fits-all problem.
I take time to understand how your instability started, how often it happens, what your knee is stopping you from doing and the underlying anatomy that may be contributing to it.
If MPFL reconstruction is right for you, I will explain the operation, rehabilitation, expected benefits and potential risks carefully in clinic. You will then receive detailed written information to read at home before making a final decision.
A consultation does not commit you to having an operation.
Your first appointment involves discussing your symptoms and goals, examining your knee and reviewing your X-rays, MRI scan or other imaging.
We can then work out why your kneecap is unstable and which treatment best fits your knee.
There is no pressure to make a decision on the day.
Read more: Patient journey →
I offer private knee consultations in Reading, Henley, Windsor and London and treat both insured and self-funding patients.
I see adults as well as children and teenagers with recurrent kneecap dislocation and patellar instability.
If you are considering paying for your own assessment or treatment, you can contact Debbie, my secretary, directly.
Read more: Fees →
No. A first kneecap dislocation can often be treated successfully with rehabilitation. Surgery is more commonly considered when instability becomes recurrent or when there are other important injuries within the knee.
The medial patellofemoral ligament is an important stabilising ligament on the inner side of the kneecap. It is commonly stretched or torn when the kneecap dislocates.
Yes. A kneecap dislocation can sometimes damage the cartilage or other structures within the knee. If surgery is required, associated problems can be assessed and treated where appropriate as part of the same treatment plan.
Yes. MPFL reconstruction can be performed in children and teenagers when appropriate, but growth and skeletal maturity need to be considered carefully when planning surgery.
Returning to sport is a common goal. The timing is individual and depends on rehabilitation, strength, control, confidence and the particular sport you want to return to.
If you are using private medical insurance, your insurer may require a referral or authorisation.
If you are self-funding, you can contact Debbie directly to arrange a consultation.
If your kneecap keeps dislocating, feels unstable or is stopping you returning confidently to sport, the first step is to understand why it is happening and what your treatment options are.
You do not need to know whether you need an MPFL reconstruction before coming to see me. Working that out is part of the consultation.
NEV DAVIES
FRCS (Tr & Orth), Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon
Written and reviewed by Mr Nev Davies FRCS (Tr & Orth), Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon and specialist knee surgeon. Last reviewed: September 2026.
This page provides general information about MPFL reconstruction and treatment of patellar instability and cannot take account of your individual circumstances. It should not be treated as personal medical advice.