Extensor mechanism realignment procedures in the treatment of patellofemoral instability.

Patellar instability is one of the most common conditions treated in the field of orthopedics. A diagnosis based on clinical and instrumental tests allows proper treatment planning. The techniques at the disposal of the surgeon - arthroscopic, arthroscopically-assisted and open - are numerous, and extensor mechanism realignment procedures are among the ones most frequently used. The choice of the most appropriate technique must be made case by case, considering the peculiarities of the individual patient.