London Cartilage Clinic IconLondon Cartilage Clinic66 Harley Street
Sterile setup for knee injection preparation

MPFL repair

From £9,800
View Price List

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.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation
Prof Paul LeeReviewed byProf Paul LeeLast reviewed 1 May 2026
Clinician adjusting ankle and knee support device

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.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation

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.

Free Discovery CallBook a Consultation
Runner jogging on a rural track

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
consulting-in-office-with-pen

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?

Free Discovery Call

London Cartilage Clinic

Latest Insights

Clinical updates, cartilage treatment guidance, and recovery-focused articles from our specialist team.

Sinogel Injection Recovery Timeline and Aftercare Tips
Injection
Eleanor Hayes

Sinogel Injection Recovery Timeline and Aftercare Tips

Sinogel injections offer an effective, non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis pain, helping improve joint mobility and reduce discomfort. Post-injection, mild swelling and soreness are common but usually subside within days. Most patients notice gradual improvement between four to eight weeks, supported by gentle activity and personalized aftercare. Avoid high-impact exercises early on, and monitor for any signs of complications like increased redness or fever. Expert guidance from professionals like Professor Paul Lee at the London Cartilage Clinic ensures a safe recovery tailored to your needs. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and attending follow-ups enhance healing. This comprehensive overview provides clear expectations and recovery tips to help patients maximize Sinogel treatment benefits while promoting joint health.

Read More
Arthrosamid Treatment Benefits for Patellofemoral Knee Osteoarthritis
Eleanor Hayes

Arthrosamid Treatment Benefits for Patellofemoral Knee Osteoarthritis

Patellofemoral osteoarthritis is a painful knee condition affecting the joint between the kneecap and thigh bone, often limiting daily activities like climbing stairs and cycling. Traditional treatments, including physiotherapy and medication, may not restore lost cartilage cushioning. Arthrosamid, an injectable gel mimicking cartilage, offers a promising minimally invasive option to reduce pain and improve movement. Recent studies show Arthrosamid can provide symptom relief for up to 24 months, especially in selected patients, though results vary and further research is needed. Expert care at the London Cartilage Clinic ensures personalized treatment plans under specialist guidance. Consult healthcare professionals to determine if Arthrosamid is suitable for managing patellofemoral osteoarthritis and enhancing quality of life.

Read More
Supplements and Vitamins Supporting Knee Cartilage Health
Eleanor Hayes

Supplements and Vitamins Supporting Knee Cartilage Health

Knee cartilage damage can cause pain and movement difficulties, affecting quality of life. This article explores key supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and collagen, detailing their potential benefits, recommended dosages, and safety. It also discusses essential vitamins such as D and C that support cartilage health. While some supplements may alleviate symptoms and support joint function, evidence for cartilage repair is limited, and personalized medical advice is crucial. Emerging treatments, including cell-based therapies, show promise but remain experimental. Combining supplements with lifestyle changes and professional guidance offers the best approach to managing knee cartilage health.

Read More
View all insights
Privacy & Cookies Policy