The medial and lateral patellar retinacula are fibrous expansions of the quadriceps tendon on either side of the patella that contribute to extensor mechanism stability and patellar tracking. The medial retinaculum containing the MPFL provides the primary medial restraint against lateral patellar dislocation, while the lateral retinaculum containing IT band contributions provides lateral restraint against medial patellar displacement.
| Origin | Medial and lateral expansion of the quadriceps tendon beyond the patella borders |
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| Insertion | Tibial condyles and joint capsule medially and laterally |
| Actions | Provide medial and lateral patellar stability; supplement the MPFL medially and the IT band and VL laterally; contribute to extensor mechanism stability |
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Lateral retinacular tightness contributing to lateral patellar tilt and compression syndrome can be addressed with lateral retinacular release — arthroscopic division of the tight lateral retinaculum. Excessive lateral release risks medial patellar instability from loss of all lateral support, requiring careful assessment of the degree of tightness before performing the procedure.
Tight lateral retinaculum producing lateral patellar tilt and compression managed with lateral retinacular stretching and release for refractory cases.
