Results of the Elmslie-Trillat procedure in cases of patella(sub)luxation related to chondral pathology

Between May 1981 and December 1993, 120 patients (126 knee joints) were ope rated using the Elsmlie-Trillat procedure because of patella(sub)luxation. 79 patients were reviewed at an average follow up of 4.1 (1-13.6) years. 46 women and 33 men were operated with an average age at operation of 26.9 (1 4-59) years. The examination included Bentley's Scare, radiological paramet ers (e.g. grading of patella dislocation), grading of chondromalacia and pa tient characteristics (e.g. age, pre-operative time). 64 knee joints (70.3 %) were evaluated 'very good' and 'good', using the scare of Bentley. There were significantly worse results in cases with higher grading of chondroma lacia (p < 0.0036), longer pre-operative time (p < 0.012) and older patient s (p < 0.0023). The worst and most highly significant results were in these patients with prior knee surgery (p < 0.0001). A good patella relocation c orrelated with improved results (p < 0.001). There was no difference in cas es with patella dislocation and/or patellasubluxation. In conclusion, the E lmslie-Trillat procedure should be carried out 'in the correct manner and a t an early stage'. To optimise the therapy in cases of patella dislocation the high number of operation techniques should be analysed and used regardi ng risk groups.