[Knee arthroplasty in isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis : A critical review of the best options].

Abstract

Background: Isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the knee joint that may cause disabling pain and functional limitations. When conservative therapy has failed, arthroplasty can significantly improve the quality of life and mobility of affected patients. In such cases, it is important to select the most suitable implant for the patient on an individual basis. This article discusses the decision-making process between patellofemoral arthroplasty, total knee replacement, and bicondylar replacement without patellar resurfacing.

Therapeutic options: Patellofemoral arthroplasty is mainly used in younger patients and, if implanted correctly, can lead to good results and a delay in the need for total knee replacement. In older patients with isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis, total knee replacement is usually the preferred option due to its predictable good outcomes and a lower revision rate. In selected cases, particularly with severely thinned patella, retropatellar resurfacing should not be done.