Patellar Clunk Syndrome Following Posterior Stabilized Total Knee Replacement: Report of Two Cases

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Patellar clunk syndrome (PCS) is a rare complication following posterior stabilized total knee replacement (PS-TKR).
• It presents as a painful, audible clunk during knee flexion-extension, often linked to fibrous tissue formation.

Observation:

• The classic cause is a fibrous nodule at the patella-quadriceps tendon junction.
• However, diverse intra-articular fibrous formations can also cause symptoms ranging from crepitus to a distinct clunk.

Findings:

• This paper details two cases of PCS, highlighting varied presentations.
• It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the spectrum of fibrous proliferation in PCS.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis of PCS is crucial for appropriate management.
• Surgical excision of the fibrous nodule is the standard treatment.
• Further understanding of PCS pathogenesis may refine surgical techniques and patient outcomes in TKR.