Revision and salvage patellar arthroplasty using a porous tantalum implant

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of a new surgical technique and novel porous tantalum implant for augmentation or arthroplasty of the patella for 11 patients who underwent revision total knee arthroplasty. Preoperative average knee function and pain scores were 24 and 20, respectively, and average range of motion (ROM) was 62 degrees. The low knee scores reflect the immobility, trauma, and/or pain associated with the patients' presenting conditions. At the most recent follow-up (average, 32 months), the average knee function and pain scores were 69 and 53, respectively, and the average ROM was 103 degrees. Radiographically, all implants were stable, and patient satisfaction has been excellent. These results indicate that this surgical technique and porous tantalum prosthesis can substantially improve function and reduce pain for patients with severe patellar bone loss and other complicating factors.