Pearls

• Abrupt reduction can cause cartilage injury on the patella.
• Reduce patella by gently extending the knee and simultaneously applying gentle lateral-to-medial directed force to push patella medially.
• Obtain "sunrise" radiographs to evaluate for fracture.
• First time dislocations are generally treated conservatively.
• Physical therapy and range of motion at around 2-weeks improve long term function.
• Repeat dislocations may require surgical stabilization.