Lateral retinacular release and reconstruction

In 1974, Merchant and Mercer published, “Lateral release of the patella: A preliminary report”. The operation rapidly became the answer for any type of anterior knee pain. This resulted in overuse of the procedure and use for inappropriate indications. As complications mounted, scientific analysis found the appropriate indications which were patellar tilt and excessively tight lateral retinacular tissues. In patients with patellar dislocations or hyperlaxity, lateral release alone has not been found to be as useful, but can be combined with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction.