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.

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    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.

    Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

    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

    From appointment scheduling, receptionist, nurse, xray to Dr. Barrett Brown, all friendly and professional. Thank God that Dr. Brown wants to try physical therapy instead of jumping to surgery. I am well pleased!!
    Shelia Briggs

    Shelia Briggs

    Dr Brown was very professional and explained everything. He helped me with decisions of my care. Highly recommend him.
    Cathy Arroyo

    Cathy Arroyo

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    Dr. Barrett Brown is a very fine physician. He is also a friend. While he is a surgeon he said this about my horribly painful shoulder. First we will try an injection performed by our specialist using ultra sound. (It was painless.) If that does not relieve your pain we will do a cat scan to evaluate the rotator cuff.
    Lynn Russell

    Lynn Russell

    Highly recommend Dr Brown!!! He took time to answer all questions without rushing. I called his office in severe pain and received the in- office MRI and Dr appt the next day then Dr Brown explained my condition and I was booked for surgery with their on-site hospital days later. The surgery went great and I was treated great by all staff. They have valet service as well. Thanks Dr Brown and all staff!!!
    Kimberley Gomez

    Kimberley Gomez

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    I had a rotator cuff repair with Dr. Brown. Everyone at this hospital from the registration staff, pre-op nurse, surgery staff, recovery room nurse, the anesthesiologist, and of course, the surgeon, Dr. Brown were all professional and caring.
    Mary Isern

    Mary Isern

    I have, unfortunately, been a frequent visitor to the Fondren Orthopedic clinic as I cannot seem to stay on my feet 😅. My most recent experience with Dr. Brown has been nothing short of excellent. From the initial exam to surgery and then the follow up and discussion of how I am healing have been extremely thorough and communication has been a 10. I would definitely recommend.
    Jenna Hunter

    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.