Barrett S. Brown, MD

7401 Main St, Houston, TX 77030

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MPFL Reconstruction (Kneecap Stabilization Surgery) In Houston, TX

Do your knees hurt, especially when you climb stairs, squat, or kneel? You might have a damaged medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). This ligament plays a huge role in stabilizing your kneecap. If simple treatments like physical therapy or medication haven’t helped, you may need surgery. Barrett S. Brown, M.D. Brown is a leading knee surgeon specializing in medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in Houston, TX. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Call Now : (346) 247-2531

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    Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Anatomy

    The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is a band of tissue connecting the inner side of the thigh bone (femur) to the top part of the kneecap (patella). This fundamental ligament stabilizes the kneecap, preventing it from shifting out of place (subluxation or dislocation).

    Causes of Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Damage

    The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) can tear or become damaged when the kneecap dislocates to the side. This dislocation can be caused by various factors, including a direct blow to the knee, a twisting injury to the lower leg, a sudden, forceful muscle contraction, or an underlying birth defect that results in abnormally shaped knee joint surfaces.

    Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

    Questions About MPFL Reconstruction (Kneecap Stabilization Surgery)?

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    Symptoms of Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Injury

    Symptoms of a medial patellofemoral ligament injury include:

    • Stiffness in the knee.
    • Swelling around the knee.
    • Pain in the knee.
    • Tenderness to touch around the knee.
    • A feeling of instability in the knee.
    • The kneecap shifted out of place.
    • A catching sensation when bending or straightening the knee.
    • Difficulty walking.
    • A cracking or popping sound in the knee.
    • Limited range of motion in the knee.
    • Discoloration or bruising near the injured area.

    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.

    MPFL Reconstruction Treatment Options in Houston

    Non-Surgical Treatment for MPFL Injuries

    For most people with an MPFL injury, non-surgical treatment is the first approach. This involves rest, ice to reduce swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen, and physical therapy to strengthen the knee muscles and improve flexibility.

    However, surgery may be necessary if the injury is severe or accompanied by additional issues like loose cartilage or bone fragments.

    Surgical Treatment for MPFL Injuries

    If non-surgical treatment doesn’t work, surgery may be necessary to repair the MPFL. This surgery can also remove loose cartilage or bone fragments and repair damaged cartilage.

    Dr. Brown, one of the best knee surgeons in Houston, will perform minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, using small incisions and a tiny camera to see inside your knee. He’ll either repair the damaged ligament or replace it with a tissue graft.

    After surgery, your knee will be immobilized for a short time. Then, you’ll start physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility. You can expect to return to sports and other activities within 4-6 months.

    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

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    Postoperative Care After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

    You’ll start putting weight on and moving your knee right after surgery. Crutches can help with comfort.

    Physical therapy will begin within 1-2 weeks to help strengthen your knee. If your recovery goes well, you can start doing more intense activities, like running or jumping, as early as 6 weeks after surgery.

    Schedule a Consultation with Houston’s MPFL Reconstruction Expert!

    If you’re experiencing constant knee pain, it’s important to see a specialist. Our board-certified knee expert, Dr. Brown, can diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment plan. To schedule an appointment and learn more about medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in Houston, TX, call (346) 247-2531.