My kneecap has dislocated three times now. Do I need surgery?

Why repeated dislocations change the advice

One dislocation can often be managed with rehabilitation. When it keeps happening, it usually means the restraining ligament has healed loose and the knee's shape makes slipping easy. Each new episode risks knocking off cartilage from the back of the kneecap or the thigh bone, and cartilage does not regrow well.

There is also the effect on your life: many people with recurrent dislocations start avoiding sport, stairs, crowds or even turning quickly, and that loss of confidence counts.

Questions your surgeon will ask

• How each dislocation happened: with a heavy blow, or with a simple twist
• Whether it went back by itself or needed emergency care
• Whether the knee swells, locks or catches between episodes
• What physiotherapy you have done and for how long
• What you want to get back to: work, prayer and daily life, gym, football or padel

What the assessment involves

Examination looks at kneecap movement, apprehension, leg alignment and laxity in both knees. An up-to-date MRI checks the cartilage, any loose fragments and the measurements that show whether MPFL reconstruction alone is likely to be enough, or whether a bony procedure should be added.

If the cartilage is significantly damaged, that may also be treated at the same operation.

Making the decision in Doha

Surgery is a choice, not an obligation. Some people with infrequent, mild episodes prefer to keep strengthening. At Aman Hospital, Dr. Gelber explains the options, the expected recovery and the risks so you can decide what fits your work, family and sport. For those who choose MPFL reconstruction, most return to their usual activities with a much more stable kneecap.