Patellar instability can be defined as dislocation or subluxation of the patella relative to the femoral trochlea. It is a common reason for consulting a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Its etiology is multifactorial. Because of the work of Hughston, Merchant, Ficat, Insall and Dejour, the overall care of this pathology has changed greatly. Surgical stabilization of the patella in children is being performed more often due to better understanding of the pathology and widespread adoption of reconstruction techniques for the medial patellofemoral ligament. However, some surgical techniques should not be used in children. Determining the type of instability is the first step to selecting the appropriate technique and to avoiding the biggest pitfall - recurrence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Expert opinion.

Keywords: Medial patellofemoral ligament; Patella alta; Patellar instability; Trochlear dysplasia.

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