Patellofemoral
Arthroplasty
When arthritis is localized to the patellofemoral compartment, a patellofemoral arthroplasty can be performed. This involves selectively resurfacing the underside of the kneecap and the portion of the femur that the kneecap rubs against. This is a type of partial knee replacement and as such enjoys the other benefits of partial knee replacement, including a quicker surgical time, faster recovery, and a more natural feeling knee postoperatively.
Additionally, these procedures are more readily performed on an outpatient basis so that patients may return home on the day of surgery and start outpatient physical therapy right away.
Pre-Operative (anteroposterior)
Anteroposterior view of a knee demonstrating a partially dislocated patella (knee cap) and severe arthritis in the space between the knee cap and femur
Post-Operative (anteroposterior)
Anteroposterior view following a patellofemoral replacement, which resurfaces the underside of the patella and the portion of the femur the patella moves against
Pre-Operative (lateral)
Lateral view of a knee demonstrating a partially dislocated patella (knee cap) and severe arthritis in the space between the knee cap and femur
Post-Operative (lateral)
Lateral view following a patellofemoral replacement, which resurfaces the underside of the patella and the portion of the femur the patella moves against
Pre-Operative (sunrise)
Sunrise view of a knee demonstrating a partially dislocated patella (knee cap) and severe arthritis in the space between the knee cap and femur
Post-Operative (sunrise)
Sunrise view following a patellofemoral replacement, which resurfaces the underside of the patella and the portion of the femur the patella moves against
Implants and Materials
For my patellofemoral arthroplasty procedures, I utilize the Zimmer/Biomet patellofemoral replacement system. This system’s milling technique in conjunction with its onlay design that incorporates an increased trochlear groove angle facilitates a reproducible procedure, optimal patellar tracking, and tailored implant selection.
