Sex-Specific Considerations and Evaluation of Trochlear Dysplasia in the Treatment of Patellofemoral Instability

Abstract

Patella dislocation is a serious problem that disrupts athletic careers and influences quality of life, particularly when it is recurrent.  The incidence of patellar dislocation has been shown to be most common in female adolescents. The causes of patellar dislocation are multifactorial, and the reasons for such sex-related differences are not well understood. A better understanding of risk factors such as trochlear dysplasia can help improve our treatment for this condition. While true for all athletes, attention to core stability, particularly with regard to lower limb mechanics, may be particularly important in female athletes with regard to reducing patella dislocation risk as well as ligament injury prevention, and should be explored further.