Early Physical Therapy Management of an Adolescent Athlete Following MPFL Reconstruction Utilizing a Quadriceps Autograft: A Case Report

Background: Patellar dislocation is one of the most common injuries in adolescents and the MPFL is commonly disrupted when a patellar dislocation occurs. Although MPFL reconstruction is a reliable surgical technique for patellar stabilization, new techniques, such as utilizing a quadriceps autograft, do not have evidence-based rehabilitation protocols available. Case Description: A 15-year-old volleyball player underwent a MPFL reconstruction utilizing a quadriceps autograft from the ipsilateral left leg following recurrent lateral patellar instability. The patient previously had a MPFL reconstruction on the contralateral right leg utilizing a different surgical technique. Intervention: Neuromuscular reeducation and closed kinetic chain tasks were key intervention strategies utilized to address deficits of mobility, strength and neuromuscular control. Outcome Measures: The Lower Extremity Functional Scale and the Move2Perform Assessment were utilized to measure functional change at the twelve-week mark. Discussion: This case study provides a detailed example of the physical therapy management of an adolescent volleyball player following a MPFL reconstruction utilizing a quadriceps autograft. The early phase protocol and clinical reasoning used during the first 12 weeks of treatment demonstrate areas of success and areas of improvement for future rehabilitation protocols to return a patient to a solid functional baseline to begin return to sport participation activities.