Total knee replacement for patellofemoral disease

This study evaluates the technical results and outcomes of total knee replacement (TKR) in a group of patients with isolated patellofemoral disease based on the amount of bone loss and patella subluxation seen at the time of surgery. Thirty-three TKRs in 25 patients comprised the study group. All patients had radiographic evidence of isolated end-stage disease in the patellofemoral joint and had cemented tri-compartmental knee replacements. All patellae could be resurfaced. Average follow-up was 5.2 years (range: 3.8-8.4 years). Average Knee Society Scores was 62 preoperatively and 96 at final follow-up. There was no correlation in outcomes related to either the amount of patellar wear, size of the patella, or amount of subluxation of the patella. Total knee replacement is an effective means of managing end-stage arthritis of the patellofemoral joint.