Kneecap Realignment & Cartilage Repair

Nature of Kneecap Realignment & Cartilage Repair

Kneecap misalignment or cartilage damage can cause chronic pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or rising from a seated position. Realignment procedures restore proper tracking of the patella, reducing pressure on the joint, while advanced cartilage repair techniques help regenerate or preserve healthy tissue.

This approach treats the underlying cause of pain, not just the symptoms, allowing for better long-term outcomes and maintaining the natural structure of the knee.

Common causes of kneecap injuries

Kneecap pain and instability can stem from various underlying conditions:

• Patellar Maltracking or Instability: When the kneecap doesn’t move properly within its groove, it creates uneven pressure and chronic discomfort.
• Cartilage Damage or Chondromalacia: Softening or wear of the cartilage behind the kneecap leads to grinding sensations, stiffness, and persistent pain.
• Recurrent Dislocations: Repeated episodes of the kneecap slipping out of place can damage surrounding cartilage and soft tissue, leading to long-term instability.
• Post-Traumatic Injury: Previous knee fractures or impacts can alter kneecap alignment and compromise joint health.
• Failed Prior Treatments: Persistent pain or instability despite physiotherapy, bracing, or prior surgeries may require realignment or cartilage restoration.
• Congenital or Structural Factors: Certain knee shapes or genetic predispositions can increase the risk of misalignment and cartilage wear over time.

Diagnosis

Patients typically experience:

• Persistent pain at the front of the knee
• Grinding or catching sensations when bending
• Instability or repeated kneecap dislocations

Prof Lee performs a comprehensive assessment, including physical examination and imaging (X-rays, CT scans, or MRI), to determine whether you are suitable for realignment, cartilage repair, or – in rare cases, partial kneecap replacement.