Outcomes after trochleoplasty.

Trochlear dysplasia is a risk factor for patellofemoral instability. Trochleoplasty involves reshaping the trochlear groove to provide increased patellofemoral stability. We obtained post-operative radiographs, MRI, and outcome scores in 6 patients who underwent this procedure. All 6 of the patients were satisfied with their outcome following trochleoplasty with no recurrent instability events. Mean bony sulcus angles decreased from 148 degrees to 129 degrees. However, 4 of the 6 patients reported anterior knee pain. Similar to previously published studies, trochleoplasty can reliably improve patellofemoral stability in patients with severe trochlear dysplasia, but a high percentage of patients will have pain postoperatively.