The Anterior Enigma: The Patellofemoral Joint in the Athlete
The patellofemoral joint is the most biomechanically complex, highly loaded, and frequently painful articulation in the athlete’s body. During a deep squat or a violent deceleration, the forces transmitted across the undersurface of the kneecap exceed multiple times the athlete’s body weight. When the delicate tracking of this joint fails, it results in agonizing anterior knee pain and devastating instability. The Patellofemoral Joint in the Athlete is a fiercely specialized, highly technical surgical manual dedicated exclusively to this unforgiving articulation. This volume provides the exact blueprints required to restore perfect patellar tracking.
Mastering Patellar Instability
The core philosophy of this text is understanding the massive vectors at play. The authors aggressively detail the pathomechanics of patellar dislocation. It dictates exactly how to diagnose a torn Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) and provides exhaustive, step-by-step algorithms for performing an anatomic MPFL reconstruction to tether the patella back into the trochlear groove.
Navigating Malalignment and Trochlear Dysplasia
The book provides a masterclass in complex bony realignment. It dictates the exact clinical pathways for managing the severely dysplastic (flat) trochlea or a massively lateralized tibial tubercle. It rigorously details the precise indications and execution of a Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy (TTO)—specifically the Fulkerson anteromedialization—to surgically alter the Q-angle and mechanically unload a damaged lateral patellar facet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does this book cover simple “runner’s knee”?
Yes, it covers the conservative management of anterior knee pain, but its primary focus is on the advanced surgical interventions required when physical therapy and taping fail.
Who is the primary audience?
It is the absolute, mandatory surgical atlas for Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeons, Knee Specialists, and advanced Physical Therapists.
