Impact of patellar stabilisation surgery on return to active duty in the French military population: an observational study

Among the 52 patients, 63% returned to operational activity in a mean time of 9±5.14 months. Persistent pain and flessum were significantly associated with failure (p<0.05). Average follow-up was 37.3 months. Regarding physical activity, 78% managed to return, 43% at a prior or higher level, the mean delay was 11.6±7.26 months. The mean postoperative Tegner score was 3.9±1.72. On functional results, the mean Lysholm score was 78.4±21 and the mean International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was 74±17.3. Persistent instability occurred in 4% of cases. The delay to prior physical level was significantly higher in tibial tuberosity transposition versus medial patella femoral ligament ligamentoplasty (p=0.016) CONCLUSIONS: Patellar instability represents a turning point in a military career. Despite effective stabilisation, nearly half of the patients will experience a decrease in their sports level, and 60% will fully regain their full duty activity. Clear and accurate information should be provided to military patients to prepare them for the foreseeable consequences.