Patella ProblemsWhat are patella problems? These problems can be roughness under your patella, or your patella is not centered in its groove in your thigh bone. Recovery from a patella problem depends on how much patella and surface cartilage damage you have. With a mild problem, your recovery may take only 4 to 6 weeks. With a severe problem, your recovery may take up to 3 to 4 months. Arthroscopy findings You may have rough surface cartilage under your kneecap, with pain and tenderness, called chondromalacia. Or your surgeon may find a malalignment problem: your patella is not centered correctly in the groove in your thigh bone. With malalignment, you may also have chondromalacia, exposed bone surfaces, and loose bodies of cartilage. Patella surgery For chondromalacia, your surgeon can smooth the shaggy surface cartilage under your kneecap. If you also have a malalignment problem, your surgeon releases the bands of dense connective tissue that pull your patella "off center" in a procedure called a lateral release. Your surgeon may also smooth any rough surface cartilage and worn bone surfaces. Your recovery You may have an ace bandage or, after a lateral release, a larger compression dressing for a few days or weeks to control swelling inside your knee. Crutches are usually needed. After a lateral release, you can expect some temporary swelling and discomfort. Exercises are needed to rebuild the strong muscles that hold your kneecap correctly aligned, especially your thigh muscles. You can return to most of your activities, although cutting back on some stop-and-go sports may be recommended.
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