What is patellofemoral instability?

Patellofemoral instability refers to the kneecap (patella) slipping out of its normal position, often leading to dislocation. It commonly affects young adults, athletes, and individuals with joint hypermobility or alignment issues.

What causes the kneecap to dislocate?

Kneecap dislocation can result from trauma, twisting injuries, or anatomical factors such as a shallow trochlear groove or poor patellar alignment. It is more common in active individuals and those with ligament laxity.

How is patellofemoral instability diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves clinical examination and imaging such as X-rays, 3T MRI, or CT scans to assess bone structure, cartilage damage, and alignment. Professor Chinmay Gupte performs a full biomechanical assessment during your consultation.

Do I need surgery for a dislocating kneecap?

Not always. Many first-time dislocations can be treated with physiotherapy. Surgery is recommended for recurrent dislocations or if imaging shows structural issues like ligament rupture or bone misalignment.

What surgeries can help stabilise the kneecap?

Procedures include MPFL reconstruction, trochleoplasty, tibial tubercle osteotomy, or lateral release, depending on the patient’s anatomy and dislocation severity. Professor Gupte tailors surgery based on each individual case.

What is a children's ACL injury?

A children's ACL injury refers to a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee, often caused by sports-related activities. In children, these injuries must be managed carefully to avoid damage to the growth plates.

How is ACL surgery different in children?

Children require growth-sparing ACL reconstruction techniques, such as all-epiphyseal or partial transphyseal methods, to protect open growth plates and ensure proper bone development.

Does every child with an ACL tear need surgery?

Not always. Some children can be managed with physiotherapy and activity modification. Surgery is recommended for ongoing instability or high-risk sports involvement.

What is the recovery time after paediatric ACL surgery?

Recovery typically takes 9 to 12 months, including physiotherapy, rehab milestones, and return-to-sport clearance under specialist guidance.

Who is the best children’s ACL surgeon in London?

Professor Chinmay Gupte is a highly experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in children’s ACL injuries. He offers expert, growth-sparing ACL surgery at the Sportshealing Clinic in London.

MAKO Robotic Total Knee Replacement in London – Precision, Performance, and Personalised Recovery

Professor Chinmay Gupte is one of the UK’s leading orthopaedic knee surgeons and a key exponent of robotic-assisted surgery. He offers advanced MAKO Robotic Total Knee Replacement at the renowned Sportshealing Clinic and affiliated hospitals across London. This procedure is ideal for patients with severe knee arthritis who want to achieve better alignment, faster recovery, and long-term knee performance.

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage in your knee joint wears away over time. It often leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.

Common causes include:

Age-related wear and tear
Previous injury or meniscus damage
Genetics or joint alignment issues
Obesity and lifestyle factors

At its advanced stages, osteoarthritis can affect your ability to walk, work, or enjoy life – making knee replacement the most effective solution when conservative options fail.

When Should You Consider Knee Replacement?

You may be a candidate for knee replacement surgery if:

You experience severe knee pain or stiffness on most days
You’ve tried physiotherapy, injections, or medications without lasting relief
Your mobility is limited and affecting daily life
X-rays or MRI show advanced joint damage or bone-on-bone contact

Professor Gupte will assess your knee through a detailed consultation, imaging review, and examination. Together, you’ll determine if MAKO robotic surgery is right for you.

What Is MAKO Robotic Knee Replacement?

MAKO is a revolutionary robotic-assisted technology developed by Stryker. It uses a 3D model of your knee and a robotic arm to help your surgeon achieve:

Sub-millimetre accuracy in bone preparation
Custom implant placement tailored to your anatomy
Preservation of healthy bone and soft tissue

Unlike traditional surgery, MAKO enables consistent, data-driven decisions in real-time – resulting in better joint balance, natural movement, and reduced pain after surgery.

The Procedure – Step-by-Step

Planning: You’ll have a CT scan to build a 3D model of your knee, allowing Prof. Gupte to plan your surgery precisely.
Surgery: On the day of surgery, the MAKO system helps guide every step, from bone cuts to implant alignment.
Precision Execution: The robotic arm assists with highly accurate bone shaping and component placement.
Recovery Support: Our team begins physiotherapy soon after surgery, with regular reviews and a personal rehab roadmap.

Benefits of MAKO Robotic Knee Replacement

Greater accuracy in implant alignment and fit
Less soft tissue trauma and bone removal
Faster return to movement and function
Lower risk of early implant wear or failure
Proven outcomes with high patient satisfaction

Recovery Timeline

Day 1–3: Hospital stay, pain management, walking with support
Week 1–4: Home physiotherapy, wound checks, gradual strength recovery
Month 2–4: Independent walking, swelling and stiffness improving
Month 4–12: Return to most activities including light sport

Full recovery varies – but many MAKO patients are ahead of schedule compared to traditional knee replacements.

Are There Any Risks?

All surgeries carry some risks. The risks of robotic total knee replacement include:

Infection
Blood clots
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
nerve or vessel damage
fracture, implant loosening
Ongoing pain or implant issues
Rare complications requiring revision surgery

At Sportshealing, we use strict protocols to minimise risks and monitor your recovery every step of the way.

Why Choose Professor Chinmay Gupte?

Over 20 years of consultant-level orthopaedic experience
Specialist in MAKO robotic surgery and cartilage restoration
Trusted by professional athletes and global patients
Researcher and lecturer at Imperial College London
Dedicated to evidence-based, compassionate care

Your journey to better movement starts with the right guidance. Prof. Gupte combines technical excellence with holistic recovery strategies to give you the best outcome.

Book Your Consultation

📍 Ready to find out if MAKO is right for you?

Schedule a consultation with Professor Chinmay Gupte today and take the first step toward a pain-free, active future.

Book your knee consultation