Orthopaedic MD

lateral release detaches patella from lateral soft tissue structures, including lateral retinaculum, fibers from tensa fascia lata muscle, & joint capsule;
- a successful release should release the lateral patellofemoral ligament and the lateral patellotibial ligament;
- in some cases, a distal realignment procedure or repair of the medial patellofemoral ligament will be required along w/ the lateral release;
Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics