Abstract des Autors

Chondromalacia patellae, a common cause of knee pain in persons under age 40, is a pathological response to the tremendous loads on the articular cartilage of the patella. It stems from imbalance of the patella while tracking the femoral trochlea, under the forces exerted by flexion. Treatment should begin with a conservative regimen that includes aspirin, rest, and avoidance of aggravating activities. Isometric quadriceps exercise are useful in rehabilitation. The infrapatella strap may be used in patients without serious instability, but if the patella is obviously unstable, one of the stabilizing braces may be helpful. Surgical treatment should not be considered unless medical management has failed, because operative results are still too inconsistent. Evidence to date suggests that the proximal realignment procedures are the most successful overall. Verf.-Referat