The lateral patellar retinaculum is a complex structure with superficial (oblique) and deep (transverse) layers connecting the iliotibial band and lateral quadriceps expansion to the lateral patella and lateral tibial condyle. Its contracture in lateral patellar tilt syndrome produces the lateral facet overload and chondromalacia of lateral patellar compression syndrome. Lateral retinacular release reduces lateral patellar tilt when conservative treatment fails.
| Origin | Iliotibial band and vastus lateralis expansion |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Lateral patellar border and Gerdy's tubercle |
| Actions | Lateral patellar constraint — balances medial retinacular (MPFL) tension; the primary lateral static stabiliser of the patella |
|---|
Lateral retinacular release is performed arthroscopically for lateral patellar tilt syndrome (tight lateral retinaculum producing lateral facet compression without instability). The release extends from the lateral gutter to the quadriceps tendon level and must be complete — an incomplete release fails to correct tilt. Lateral release alone without MPFL reconstruction should not be performed for patellar instability.
Lateral retinacular contracture producing lateral facet overload and chondromalacia managed with arthroscopic lateral retinacular release.
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