Kneecap dislocation treatment in Dubai

Where in Dubai

Dr. Subhash Ushakoyala, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, sees kneecap dislocations at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai. If you were treated in an emergency department when it happened, bring the discharge letter and X-rays. Tell him how many times the kneecap has slipped out and what you were doing each time, because that pattern guides the plan.

What is kneecap dislocation?

The kneecap (patella) normally runs up and down in a groove at the end of the thighbone as the knee bends. It dislocates when it slips out of that groove, usually to the outer side. This often happens with a twist, a pivot or an awkward fall, and less often with a direct blow. The kneecap may slip back by itself, but the ligament on its inner side is often torn, and the cartilage behind the kneecap can be damaged. Some people are more prone to it: a shallow groove, knock knees, a twist in the leg bones, or loose ligaments. A first dislocation is usually treated without surgery. When the kneecap keeps slipping, surgery to stabilise or realign it may help.

Common signs

• A kneecap that slipped out of place and then went back, with pain and swelling.
• A knee that feels as if the kneecap is about to slip, especially when twisting.
• Repeated dislocations, or a kneecap that has never felt stable since the first one.
• Pain or swelling at the front of the knee after a dislocation.
• Children and teenagers with a kneecap that keeps slipping, as well as adults.

How Dr. Subhash approaches it

Dr. Subhash lists the realignment of a dislocating kneecap among the knee operations he does. He examines how the kneecap moves, how the legs are aligned and how strong the thigh muscles are, and checks for a loose piece of bone or cartilage. A first dislocation is usually treated with a brace and exercises. If the kneecap keeps slipping, he explains whether surgery to stabilise or realign it is advised, and what it involves.

What to expect

1. 01

   Consultation

   He asks how the kneecap came out, how many times it has happened, and what you want to get back to.

2. 02

   Examination

   He checks how the kneecap tracks as you bend and straighten, the shape and alignment of the legs, and muscle strength.

3. 03

   Scans

   X-rays are usually taken. An MRI shows torn ligaments and loose pieces of cartilage or bone. A CT scan is sometimes used to measure alignment.

4. 04

   First treatment

   A brace, crutches for a short time if walking hurts, and a physiotherapy programme to strengthen the thigh muscles.

5. 05

   Surgery if it keeps slipping

   Surgery may rebuild the ligament that holds the kneecap in place, or realign the bones it runs on. Loose fragments are removed or fixed.

6. 06

   Follow-up

   He reviews your progress and agrees when you can return to sport.

Getting better

Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.

• Many people walk soon after treatment, with a crutch if it hurts.
• After a first dislocation, a return to normal activities within one to three months is a common goal.
• Full recovery can take several months. Avoid sport until thigh strength has come back.
• Recovery after stabilising surgery is longer, and the physiotherapy plan is matched to the operation.

Risks to know about

• The kneecap can dislocate again, more often in people with a shallow groove or other risk factors.
• Damage to the cartilage behind the kneecap can lead to pain and, later, arthritis.

When to book a visit

Where to book