Midterm outcomes of patellofemoral arthroplasty in patients of isolated patellofemoral arthritis

Therapeutic effects of patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) on patellofemoral arthritis are presented. All patellofemoral arthroplasties performed from 2008 to 2023 were retrospectively reviewed using case notes, radiographs and clinic appointments until their latest follow-up period. 132 arthroplasties in 126 patients were followed up for an average period of 31.8 months (range 3-90 months). The average age was 54.2 years with 112 female patients and 14 male patients. No severe complications were detected during follow-up period. Knee function: straight 0°, flexion average 120° (110 to 135°). Feller score was 24.8 points (22 to 28 points). Arthroplasty is required when conservative treatments were ineffective. Although total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has achieved good results in the treatment of tricompartment osteoarthritis, there is still controversy over the treatment of pure patellofemoral arthritis. PFA has minimal trauma, good clinical efficacy, less osteotomy, and more preservation of tibiofemoral joint bone mass, without affecting possible future TKAs. This surgical procedure has satisfactory mid-term efficacy, but close follow-up is needed for its long-term efficacy.