A Multicenter Review of Patellar Complications Using a Modem Design Total Knee System

Description: Edward T. Habermann, MD, Lester S. Borden, MD, FACS Anthony K. Hedley, MD, FRCS, David S. Hungerford, MD Kenneth A. Krackow, MD
Abstract: This retrospective study reviewed the results of 3,218 total knee arthroplasty cases using one total knee replacement system at five centers from July 1991 to October 1997. Cases were reviewed to determine the occurrence of patellar related complications post-operatively. Events reported included patellar dislocation/subluxation, patellar fracture, component loosening and tendon rupture. The rates were noted to be low in comparison to literature reports of other series. The overall patellar related complication rate was 0.3% (11/3218) for the cases reviewed. Given the historically high rates of patellofemoral complications reported in the literature, this review has shown that good design of the implant helps reduce patellar related problems in total knee arthroplasty patients.