[Patellar cartilage repair-current concepts and evidence]

Due to their unique anatomy and biomechanics, patellar cartilage defects are both common and challenging to manage. In cases of persistent instability or dysplasia, bony and ligamentous procedures are necessary to correct patellar tracking and reduce patellofemoral forces. Only after addressing these underlying issues can cartilage restoration be performed effectively. Currently, a wide array of cartilage repair techniques is available, demonstrating favorable clinical outcomes; however, no single method has emerged as superior. If left untreated, cartilage defects of the patella often progress to functional impairment and pain, culminating in end-stage patellofemoral osteoarthritis.