Patella Alta

Description

Dr Laurie Hiemstra gives her expert insights and focuses on methods for assessing patella alta, highlighting the significance of differentiating between bony and cartilaginous forms of this condition. While traditional assessments often rely on X-ray measurements of the patella's positioning relative to the tibia or the length of the patellar tendon, Dr Hiemstra emphasizes that these methods can be misleading. Variations in trochlear length can skew X-ray analysis, making it possible for some patients to appear normal despite issues with cartilage articulation. She introduces the concept of patellofemoral engagement, a technique developed by Rolly Badat that utilizes MRI to analyze cartilage relationships, thus providing a more accurate diagnosis in comparison to standard radiologic measurements.


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DOI: 10.1302/3114-251215

Specialties