Osteophytes removal in patella versus lateral facetectomy of the patella in patella-retaining total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND In this study, the results of the partial lateral facetectomy of the patella to better patellofemoral motion and congruence are compared with the results of the osteophyte removal of the patella and neurectomy only in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS Data from 55 patients undergoing TKA with osteophytes removal of the patella and neurectomy only, and those undergoing osteophytes removal of the patella and neurectomy and partial lateral facetectomy were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by knee society score (KSS) and functional score of knee. Clinical anterior knee pain (AKP) rating and knee range of motion and extension lag were assessed for each patient. RESULTS There was significant difference between two groups in AKP (p < 0.05), and the mean range of motion of the knee in groups 1 and 2 was 117° ± 9° and 116.6° ± 8.2°, respectively. Three (13%) patients of the reshaped patella group and three (11%) patients of the non-reshaped patella group had extension lag <10°, respectively. The mean KSS and knee functional scores showed no statistical difference between groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Partial lateral facetectomy of the patella can decrease AKP and can be used routinely for every patient that surgeon does not decide to resurface the patella.