Transient lateral patellar dislocation

Case contributed by Ammar Haouimi
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Trauma to the left knee.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Female
  • moderate lateral patellar displacement
  • large area of bone contusion of the medial aspect of the patella and lateral femoral condyle
  • disruption of the medial retinaculum with adjacent periligamentous oedema 
  • moderate joint effusion (haemarthrosis)
  • prepatellar subcutaneous oedematous infiltration
  • cortical depression with bone marrow oedema of the lateral femoral condyle in keeping with a focal impaction fracture
  • horizontal tear of the medial meniscal (posterior horn)
  • normal appearance of the lateral meniscus, cruciate, and collateral ligaments.

Case Discussion

MRI features of a transient lateral dislocation of the patella with a medial meniscal tear.

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