I’m having knee pain and my kneecap dislocates every now and then. The doctor suggests an operation called a lateral retinacular release. I’ve been told the results can vary from patient to patient. How do we know if this will really work for my problem?

Studies of a lateral retinacular release (LRR) may show different results for different patients for two reasons. The first is just in how the studies are done. First, it’s hard to compare results from one study to the next if patient histories, physical findings, and results of imaging studies aren’t reported.

Second, the LRR may not work for all cases of knee pain. A recent study showed the LRR was more successful in patients with knee pain but a stable patella. This means the patella doesn’t sublux or dislocate. Patients with an unstable patella or cartilage damage down to the bone have worse results.

You may be a good candidate for LRR if you have knee pain but a stable kneecap. Your results will improve if you follow a good rehab program after surgery.