| The patella can become luxated, or dislocated, either as a result of trauma or because of a congenital malformation of the leg. |
| A capsulotomy was performed and the patella was dislocated laterally to expose the articular surface of the trochlear groove. |
| Typical sites for such separation include the medial femoral condyle and the patella. |
| The goal is restoration and maintenance of balance of the patella within the trochlea. |
| Move the patella around to see if displacing it one way or the other causes discomfort. |
| Cartilage under the patella or kneecap wears away and the surface becomes rough and grainy. |
