The ‘forgotten’ lateral patellofemoral ligament: The known unknown

Abstract

The lateral patellofemoral ligament (LPFL) is an important anatomical structure and a stabilizer of the patella against medial subluxation or dislocation. It is located within the second layer of the lateral soft tissue of the knee, with firm attachments to the anterior-distal region of the lateral femoral epicondyle and the the lateral edge of the patella and patellar tendon. LPFL has a non-isometric character and decreases its length across the knee flexion, especially from 0° to 30°. Most LPFL injuries are iatrogenic (> 90%) and occur during lateral retinacular release, while the mainstay treatment option involves reconstruction of the torn ligament using an autograft or an allograft.