MPFL Reconstruction in Houston
If you’ve experienced repeated kneecap dislocations or your knee continues feeling like it might give out at any moment, the problem may be a torn medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). Dr. Barrett S. Brown is a board-certified surgeon who specializes in MPFL reconstruction in Houston. He can offer treatments to help you regain knee stability and confidence in your movement.
Request An Appointment
Your Medial Patellofemoral Ligament
The medial patellofemoral ligament connects your kneecap to your thighbone, preventing your kneecap from sliding out of its normal groove. When your kneecap dislocates, this ligament typically tears, losing its ability to hold your kneecap in proper alignment. Without an intact ligament, your knee remains vulnerable to future dislocations.
You might have damaged your medial patellofemoral ligament during a sports activity that involved twisting or sudden directional changes. A direct blow to your knee or an awkward landing can also cause the injury. Some people have anatomical factors that make their knees naturally more prone to instability, including shallow knee grooves or alignment issues that place extra stress on the ligament. Whatever caused your initial injury, the torn ligament needs attention promptly.
Is Surgery Necessary?
Not every medial patellofemoral ligament injury requires surgical reconstruction. Dr. Brown begins with conservative treatments for first-time dislocations, including rest, pain relievers and physical therapy to support healing. However, if your kneecap has dislocated multiple times or your knee continues feeling unstable, reconstruction surgery may be the appropriate next step. Athletes who need reliable knee function for their sport often choose surgery to prevent future dislocations that could end their season or career. Dr. Brown evaluates your specific situation through examination and imaging studies, helping you determine whether reconstruction offers the best solution.
Questions About MPFL Reconstruction?
The Surgical Reconstruction Process
MPFL reconstruction creates a new ligament to replace your damaged one. Dr. Brown uses a tissue graft, typically taken from your hamstring tendon or from donor tissue, to rebuild the connection between your kneecap and thighbone. Using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques whenever possible, Dr. Brown makes small incisions to access your knee joint. He positions the graft at the exact anatomical attachment points and secures it with specialized fixation devices.
After surgery, you may use crutches to ensure your comfort, and you will start physical therapy within a week or two to strengthen your knee. Typically, you will return to more intensive activity within four to six months.
How is a Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Injury Diagnosed
Our medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction expert in Houston, Dr. Brown, will ask you questions about your medical history, symptoms, and daily activities. He’ll also want to know if a specific event, like a dislocated knee, triggered your knee pain.
After discussing your medical history, Dr. Brown will examine your knee thoroughly. Since an MPFL injury is a soft tissue injury, he’ll likely order an MRI to get detailed images of your knee. He may also order an X-ray to check for any bone injuries.
Choose Dr. Brown for a Compassionate Approach
Dr. Brown is a board-certified knee specialist with over 23 years of experience and a compassionate approach that ensures quality care from your initial evaluation through your complete recovery. His patients express gratitude for the results he achieves and for his thoughtful approach.
Because of his “conversative-first” philosophy, Dr. Brown is committed to exploring all possible options before turning to surgical treatments. When you work with him, you will have access to advanced techniques and care that’s tailored to your individual needs.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Shelia Briggs
Cathy Arroyo
Karen Larocca
Lynn Russell
Kimberley Gomez
Karen Larocca
Mary Isern
Jenna Hunter
Schedule a Consultation with Houston’s MPFL Reconstruction Expert!
If recurring kneecap dislocations are limiting your activities, contact Dr. Brown’s Houston office at (346) 247-2531 or reach out online to schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to help.


