Management of patellofemoral arthrosis in middle-aged patients

Patellofemoral arthrosis is one of the most common causes of knee pain in middle-aged patients, and is often associated with patellofemoral malalignment. A correct diagnosis is established by history taking and physical and radiographic examinations of the knee. The initial treatment of choice is conservative treatment, which includes anti-inflammatory drugs, use of a knee brace, quadriceps-strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and modification of activity. Surgery is indicated when patients fail to improve after at least 6 months of conservative treatment and are functionally disabled. Lateral retinacular release and proximal realignment are performed only in selected cases. Distal realignment by anteromedial transfer of the tibial tubercle is the most effective method for treating patients with patellofemoral arthrosis. The magnitude of anteromedial transfer of the tibial tubercle must be individualized, and rigid internal fixation enables immediate postoperative rehabilitation. In knees with patellofemoral arthrosis with no malalignment, a 20-mm anterior displacement without medial transfer of the tibial tubercle is suggested. A 15-mm anterior displacement plus 5 to 10 mm of medial transfer of the tibial tubercle is recommended in knees with patellofemoral arthrosis and mild to moderate malalignment. In knees with severe malalignment, 15 mm of medial transfer and 10 mm of anterior displacement are recommended. A triple osteotomy is considered in knees with patellofemoral osteoarthrosis and patella baja. Patellofemoral resurfacing arthroplasty is only done in carefully selected patients. A patellectomy should be avoided if at all possible. Total knee arthroplasty is indicated in knees with bi- or tricompartmental osteoarthritis.