Arthroscopic Excision of Bipartite Patella With Preservation of Lateral Retinaculum in an Adolescent Ice Hockey Player

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2017 May/Jun;46(3):135-138.

Abstract

Bipartite patella usually is an asymptomatic anatomical variant. However, in some adolescent athletes, it causes anterior knee pain, resulting in decreased participation and performance. We report the case of a high-level adolescent ice hockey player who underwent successful arthroscopic excision with preservation of the lateral retinaculum of a symptomatic bipartite patella after failed nonoperative treatment. The patient returned to play by 6 weeks, and 31-month subjective follow-up scores showed high satisfaction and good clinical outcomes. For patients with a symptomatic bipartite patella, arthroscopic surgery is a good option for reducing pain and returning the athlete to competition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Arthroscopy / methods*
  • Hockey*
  • Humans
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Knee Joint / surgery*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Patella / abnormalities*
  • Patella / diagnostic imaging
  • Patella / surgery*
  • Radiography
  • Return to Sport*
  • Treatment Outcome