arthoscopy & possibly VMO advancement

[SamAE]

Ive had knee problems for a long time. I recently went & saw a 3rd orphopedic doctor to possibly get some better answers or treatment. My first day going in he suggested that id get an arthoscopy of my worst knee done first that way if there's something theyre missing (because my pain in chronic, theres nothing that helps it) then they can see. & if they see that the patella is just not tracking properly then theyll go right ahead & proceed with a VMO advancement. Has anyone here had this procedure done? & if so what could i possibly expect. The only other procedure ive had done to this knee was a lateral release in december of 2005. Im really hoping to possibly get SOMETHING out of this though.

[JainMD]

Hi Sam,
How are you feeling?
VMO advancement procedure is Vastus Medialis Oblique advancement procedure. This is technique of advancing Vastus Medialis Oblique muscle distally and laterally over the patella to prevent recurrent dislocation.
Arthroscopy does not have a place in the treatment of patellar dislocation other than for intra-articular assessment of Patello-femoral tracking or the treatment of associated injuries.
Lateral release for patellar instability has poor long term results.
I believe patella is an important part of the extensor mechanism for knee joint and hence it should be preserved.
Keep me informed if you need any queries to be answered.
Bye.

[cj79]

I had a lateral release, vmo advancement, and medial reefing on Nov. 15, 2007. I am just now able to drive and make full revolutions on the stationary  bike.  It's a VERY painful and slow process recovering from this!! I did strength tests at physical therapy last week and my leg is at 20% and my dr. estimates I will be "back to what I was before the surgery" in about a year. Not a fun procedure, my heart goes out to you if you have to have it done!!

[sonu78]

Hi,
VMO advancement procedure is VASTUS MEDIALIS OBLIQUUS  ADVANCEMENT.
This is usually done along with patellectomy for stabilizing  the knee joint.
Patella is an integeral part of the extensor apparatus of the knee. Patellectomy alone would interfere with extension and this is overcome by adding VMO procedure.