Cartilage Lesions in Patellofemoral Dislocations: Incidents/Locations/When to Treat

Patellofemoral (PF) dislocations are frequently associated with chondral injury. Chondral and osteochondral lesions are often associated with traumatic (high-energy) PF dislocations, whereas atraumatic (low-energy) PF dislocations in patients with significant PF risk factors have a much lower incidence of osteochondral damage. This article provides a historical overview and delineates the current state of radiographic and clinical outcomes of osteochondral lesions after PF dislocation. The importance of understanding risk factors of redislocation is emphasized, and the current treatment options for these cartilage lesions associated with PF dislocation are briefly summarized.