Return to Activities After Patellofemoral Arthroplasty

Patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) is used to treat isolated patellofemoral arthritis, but little is known about post-PFA activity levels and functional outcome scores. We reviewed 48 consecutive cases (39 patients) of PFAs performed between 2009 and 2014. Three validated patient-reported outcome measures (Kujala score, Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee score) were used to evaluate knee function before and after surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures were significantly improved after surgery. Return to previous preferred activity was reported by 72.2% of patients, and 52.8% of patients reported returning to the same activity level or to a higher level. Historically, the literature evaluating knee arthroplasty outcomes has focused on implant survivorship, pain relief, and patient satisfaction. Our findings show that patients who undergo PFA have a high rate of return to their preferred activities. These findings can be used to inform patients who want to remain active after PFA.