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MPFL repair

From £9,800
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Guide price only. Final cost is confirmed after assessment.

The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is a ligament that stabilises the knee. It makes up part of the soft tissue in the knee joint, attaching to the underside of the patella and the femur bone. Damage to the MPFL can occur when kneecap is dislocated or fractured, with the common causes being a sporting injury or fall. When this happens, the kneecap can become loose as it can no longer be held in the groove at the end of the thigh bone.

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Prof Paul LeeReviewed byProf Paul LeeLast reviewed 1 May 2026
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When MPFL repair may be recommended

The MPFL is a key stabiliser that helps keep the kneecap tracking correctly. Repeated dislocation, persistent instability, or associated cartilage injury can indicate the need for surgical treatment.

  • Recurrent kneecap dislocation or subluxation episodes.
  • Painful instability affecting walking, sport, or confidence.
  • Imaging findings that suggest high risk of further patellar damage.

Depending on tissue quality and anatomy, treatment may involve repair, reconstruction, or a combined stabilisation strategy.

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Benefits of specialist MPFL surgery at London Cartilage Clinic

Specialist MPFL treatment aims to restore kneecap stability, reduce recurrent dislocation risk, and protect the joint surface from repeated trauma.

  • Detailed pre-operative assessment of alignment and instability drivers.
  • Technique selection tailored to your anatomy and activity goals.
  • Structured rehabilitation to rebuild strength and movement confidence.

Our goal is not only symptom relief, but durable patellofemoral stability and a safe return to daily activity and sport.

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You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

Explore Knee Options
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recovery time for MPFL surgery?

Most patients will be able to return home the same day of the surgery. However, you will experience difficulty bending the knee which is likely to be accompanied by swelling of the knee.

Can I have MPFL repair surgery on medication?

It depends on what the medication is. You will need to notify your surgeon if you are on warfin or clopidogrel, but it is worth asking their advice for other medications also. They will then advise accordingly ahead of the procedure.

What happens if I don’t have the MPFL operation?

If it’s your first kneecap dislocation, there is a chance that physiotherapy will prove to be an effective treatment option. However, if your patella has dislocated multiple times before, you will continue to experience joint pain and discomfort if left untreated. MPFL damage can also lead to complications with arthritis.

Still have more specific concerns?

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