Study to Determine Prevalence of Patellofemoral Symptoms after Total Knee Arthroplasty with Non-Resurfacing of the Patella

Abstract

Background: The controversy over whether or not to routinely resurface the patella during a total knee arthroplasty has persisted despite three decades of successful joint arthroplasty procedures. Advocates for routine patellar resurfacing admit the occasional need for secondary patellar resurfacing and declare increased prevalence of anterior knee pain in patients with non-resurfaced patellae as a cause for worry. Surgeons that leave the patella non-resurfaced cite avoidance of complications that include patellar fracture, avascular necrosis, patellar tendon injury and instability. Objective: To study the prevalence of post-op patellofemoral symptoms like anterior knee pain, clunk and crepitus in patients underwent total knee arthroplasty with non-resurfacing of the patella. Methods: Retrospective study was conducted among the patients who had total knee arthroplasty without resurfacing. Patients were examined by a specialist to check for any patellofemoral symptoms like anterior knee pain, clunk and crepitus. The knee pain questionnaire was used. Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistics like mean, standard deviation and proportion and percentages. Results: Total 156 study subjects participated in the study. Mean follow-up was 47.7 months (SD=4.5 months). The prevalence of anterior knee pain was 4.2%. Prevalence of patellar crepitus was 7.1%. No other complications were recorded in the study participants. Conclusion: Prevalence of post-op PF pain, clunk and crepitus is low among who had total knee arthroplasty without resurfacing.