Efficacy of surgical interventions for a bipartite patella

Bipartite patella is a relatively rare phenomenon. This anomaly is typically asymptomatic but can become painful with overuse, strenuous activities, or trauma, which is why it is typically seen in a young, athletic population. Although nonsurgical management is the initial treatment, if symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be necessary. Multiple surgical options exist, such as excision or fixation of the fragment or release of lateral soft tissue structures. The authors report the efficacy of various surgical interventions on a symptomatic bipartite patella, with outcomes related to symptom relief and ability to return to preoperative levels of activity. A systematic review was performed using multiple databases. Studies reporting outcomes of symptom relief or ability to return to activity following surgical intervention for a bipartite patella were included. Surgical technique, type of bipartite, and complications were recorded. Twenty-four articles with a total of 122 patients and 127 knees were included and reviewed. Relief of pain was achieved in 84.1% of patients, with 98.3% able to return to their preoperative activity levels after surgery. For patients with a symptomatic bipartite patella, return to preoperative activity levels with zero to minimal pain can be achieved with excellent results using any of the reported surgical methods.