Focal anatomic patellofemoral inlay resurfacing: theoretic basis, surgical technique, and case reports

Prosthetic patellofemoral inlay resurfacing is a novel treatment concept for degenerative and focal arthrosis of the patellofemoral joint. The theoretic basis of this type of arthroplasty entails recreating ambient anatomy based upon intraoperative topographic mapping. The implant is intrinsically stable by virtue of the inset position relative to the surrounding joint surface. Articular resurfacing, rather than traditional replacement arthroplasty, represents an extension of the concepts of biologic joint restoration. Early results have shown great efficacy. This surgery may be appropriate for a wide variety of indications, including younger patients and those with focal patellofemoral disease concurrent with morphologic or alignment abnormalities.