Management of the deficient patella in revision total knee arthroplasty

Dalí Sign: Characterization and Case Series of Patellar Bony Shell Morphological Changes after Two-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection

The fate of the patella in two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in which the patella is left as a bony shell is poorly described. The purpose of this case series is to describe a phenomenon we name the Dalí Sign, which is characterized by elongation and curvature of the patella around the lateral edge of the femoral component occasionally observed in patients undergoing two-stage revision without reimplantation of the patellar component.Our institutional surgical database was queried for patients who were treated with two-stage revision arthroplasty for PJI by the two senior authors. All available sequential skyline patellar radiographs were viewed from immediately prior to first-stage explantation to latest image at final outpatient follow-up at our institution and assessed for the abovementioned morphological changes.Included patients underwent a two-stage revision surgery for PJI at our institution, had a patellar component removed during the first stage of their treatment which included implant explantation and insertion of temporary antibiotic spacers, did not have the patellar component reimplanted during their second-stage revision surgery, and demonstrated radiographic patellar morphological changes at final follow-up. Patients' demographic, surgical, and outcome data were recorded.Our review identified six patients meeting these criteria. Mean follow-up after second-stage surgery was 12 months (range 2 to 21 months). At final follow-up, three patients were walking without pain, one patient was exercising to tolerance, one patient was walking with pain, and one was using a wheelchair or a walker for mobility.In this case series, we characterize the Dalí Sign, the elongation and curvature of the patellar bony shell over the femoral component after two-stage revision for PJI. Further comparative cohort studies are necessary to identify the incidence and risk factors for the development of this morphological change and to compare outcomes of patients with and without the Dalí Sign when left with a bony shell after staged revision TKA.

3D preoperative plan assisted total knee arthroplasty after knee arthrodesis with patella absence: a case report

PURPOSE

The conversion of knee arthrodesis to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a challenging procedure. This article aims to report a case of fusion knee with patellar absence who was converted to TKA and has achieved good results.

METHODS

The patient, a 23 years old Tibetan Buddhist monk, sustained a left knee joint injury at the age of 12 due to a car accident, leading to subsequent knee arthrodesis at 18 years old as a result of recurrent severe infections. However, this procedure hindered his ability to perform daily meditation practices that required bending both knees and sitting cross-legged. After adequate preoperative preparation, with the help of customized osteotomy guide plate and customized 3D-printed porous tantalum patella, the 3D preoperative plan assisted TKA after arthrodesis was performed. The knee function was followed up to explore the clinical effect of above-mentioned surgical procedure.

RESULTS

A 1-year follow-up showed significant improvement in postoperative knee function with improved scores for function outcomes, and the patient was satisfied with the conversion. The patient's left knee improved significantly from preoperative immobility with 5° of fixed fusion to postoperative ROM of 0° to 100°, and the patient could squat and stand up, walk on the flat ground, and go up and down stairs.

CONCLUSION

Adequate preoperative communication with patients and good expectation management are crucial for ensuring favorable prognoses. Perfect preoperative planning and its reliable implementation during operation are essential. Additionally, postoperative rehabilitation and proactive management of complications play pivotal roles in achieving optimal clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Management of Bone Loss in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: An International Consensus Symposium

The evaluation, classification, and treatment of significant bone loss after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) continue to be a complex and debated topic in revision TKA (rTKA). Despite the introduction of new evidence and innovative technologies aimed at addressing the approach and care of severe bone loss in rTKA, there is no single document that systematically incorporates these newer surgical approaches. Therefore, a comprehensive review of the treatment of severe bone loss in rTKA is necessary. The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Complex Joint Reconstruction Center Hospital for Special Surgery, dedicated to clinical care and research primarily in revision hip and knee replacement, convened a Management of Bone Loss in Revision TKA symposium on June 24, 2022. At this meeting, the 42 international invited experts were divided into groups; each group was assigned to discuss questions related to 1 of the 4 topics: (1) assessing preoperative workup and imaging, anticipated bone loss, classification system, and implant surveillance; (2) achieving durable fixation in the setting of significant bone loss in revision TKA; (3) managing patellar bone loss and the extensor mechanism in cases of severe bone loss; and (4) considering the use of complex modular replacement systems: hinges, distal femoral, and proximal tibial replacements. Each group came to consensus, when possible, based on an extensive literature review and interactive discussion on their group topic. This document reviews each these 4 areas, the consensus of each group, and directions for future research.

Resurfacing Egg-shell Patellar Defect in a Single-staged Primary total Knee Arthroplasty - A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Patellofemoral biomechanics are a very critical factor for patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty. Patellar defects in a primary total knee arthroplasty are rare. We present a rare case of valgus deformed knee with an eroded egg-shell like patella managed with primary knee arthroplasty.

CASE REPORT

A 58-year-old female with bilateral knee pain for 35-years presented to us with a bilateral valgus knee. The knee range of movement was restricted more on the left side and severely restricting her activities of daily living. She had an egg-shell like eroded patellar defect in an osteoarthritic knee for which, she underwent primary total knee arthroplasty and patellar resurfacing with autologous bone graft harvested from the tibial cut bone.

CONCLUSION

We have presented a rare case of a combination of patellar defect in an Osteoarthritic knee which was managed by modified gapbalancing technique of TKA with a novel method of patellar resurfacing in a single stage with good functional results at 1-year postoperatively. This case improves our understanding of the management of such complex scenarios and, more importantly raises the questions our understanding and need of classification of such patellar defects in a primary arthritic knee.

Biconvex Patellar Components: 96% Durability at 10 Years in 262 Revision Total Knee Arthroplasties

BACKGROUND

The optimal strategy to address osseous deficiencies of the patella during revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. One possible solution is a cemented biconvex patellar component used such that the non-articular convexity both improves fixation and makes up for bone loss. The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of the use of biconvex patellar components in a large series of revision TKAs.

METHODS

From 1996 to 2014, 262 revision TKAs were performed at a single institution using a biconvex patellar component. Implant survivorship, clinical and radiographic results, and complications were assessed. The mean patient age at the TKA revision was 69 years, and 53% of the patients were female. The mean follow-up was 7 years.

RESULTS

The 10-year survivorship free of revision of the biconvex patellar component due to aseptic loosening was 96%. The 10-year survivorship free of any revision of the biconvex patellar component was 87%. The 10-year survivorship free of any rerevision and free of any reoperation was 75% and 70%, respectively. The mean Knee Society Score (KSS) improved from 45.4 before the index revision to 67.7 after it. The mean residual composite thickness seen on the most recent radiographs was 18.1 mm. In addition to the complications leading to revision, the most common complications were periprosthetic patellar fracture (6%), of which 3 required revision; superficial wound infection (6%) requiring antibiotic therapy only or irrigation and debridement; and arthrofibrosis (3%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of 262 revision TKAs, biconvex patellar components used to treat marked patellar bone loss demonstrated excellent durability with a 10-year survivorship free of patellar rerevision due to aseptic loosening of 96%. The biconvex patellar components were reliable as evidenced by substantial improvements in clinical outcomes scores and a low risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Patellar Tracking in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: Does Retaining a Patella From a Different Implant System Matter?

BACKGROUND

Patellar maltracking is a potential surgical complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and can result in anterior knee pain, recurrent patellar dislocation, and damage to the medial patellar soft tissue stabilizers. Data remain unclear as to whether the patellar button should be revised during a revision TKA (rTKA) if changing the component implant system. Our study examines whether retaining the original patellar button during an rTKA using a different implant system affects patellar tracking.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of rTKA patients between August 2011 and June 2019 was performed at an urban, tertiary referral center. Patients were divided into 2 cohorts depending on whether their retained patella from their primary TKA was of the same (SIM) or different implant manufacturer (DIM) as the revision system used. Radiographic measurements were performed on preoperative and postoperative knee radiographs and differences were compared between the 2 groups. Baseline demographic data were also collected.

RESULTS

Of the 293 consecutive, aseptic rTKA cases identified, 122 underwent revision in the SIM cohort and 171 in the DIM cohort. There were no demographic differences between the groups. No statistical significance was calculated for differences in preoperative and postoperative patellar tilt or Insall-Salvati ratio between the groups. The DIM group was found to have more lateral patellar translation (-0.01 ± 6.09 vs 2.68 ± 7.61 mm, P = .001). However, when calculating differences in the magnitude of the translation (thereby removing differences due to laterality), no difference was observed (0.06 ± 3.69 vs 0.52 ± 4.95 mm, P = .394).

CONCLUSION

No clinically significant differences in patellar tracking were observed when the original patellar component was retained and a different revision implant system was used. Given the inherent risks of bone loss and fracture with patellar component revision, surgeons performing rTKA may retain the primary patella if it is well fixed and can still expect appropriate patellar tracking regardless of the revision implant system used.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Retrospective cohort study.

Patellar Rebar Augmentation in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

In revision total knee arthroplasty, osteolysis, mechanical abrasion, and infection may leave patellar bone stock severely attenuated with cavitary and/or segmental rim deficiencies that compromise fixation of patellar implant pegs. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively review the use of cortical "rebar" screws to augment cement fixation in revision patelloplasty.

METHODS

From 2006 to 2018, dorsal patellar rebar technique was used for patellar reconstruction in 128 of 1037 revision total knee arthroplasty cases (12.3%). Follow-up was achieved with serial radiographs and prospective comparison of Knee Society Scores (KSSs) for clinical outcome. Complications and implant failures requiring reoperation or modified rehabilitation were also assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 128 patellar revisions performed using the rebar technique, 69 patients were women and 59 patients were men. The average age of the group was 69.5 years (range, 32-83 years). The mean follow-up of the cohort was 37 months (range, 13-109 months). The most common causes for revision were kinematic conflict, periprosthetic joint infection, and aseptic loosening. The median number of rebar screws used was 5 (range, 1-13). Preoperative KSSs for the study cohort averaged 50 (range, 0-90) At latest follow-up, mean KSS was 85 (range, 54-100). There were 4 patellar-related complications (3.1%) with no implant failures at study conclusion. Retrieval analysis revealed rigid fixation of the reconstructed patellar component in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Patellar rebar screw augmentation is a useful technique when there are significant cavitary deficiencies and limited segmental rim deficiencies. This technique allows the surgeon to extend indications for patellar revision arthroplasty.

Biomechanical Study of Patellar Component Fixation with Varying Degrees of Bone Loss

BACKGROUND

The decision as to whether or not to resurface the patella in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is affected by the amount of patellar bone stock remaining; however, the impact of the cancellous bone status on patellar component fixation has not been studied. Therefore, we conducted a biomechanical study of patellar component fixation with varying degrees of cancellous bone loss.

METHODS

Sixty pairs of cadaveric patellae were randomly assigned between 3 groups and prepared in similar manner to a TKA with the standard 3-hole configuration. A control patella and an experimental patella were designated in each pair. To simulate bone loss in the experimental patellae, 1, 2, and 3 of the standard drill holes were uniformly enlarged to 12 mm in group 1, group 2, and group 3, respectively. Afterward, an all-polyethylene patellar component was cemented to each patella, as done intraoperatively. Patellar components were then sheared off using a materials testing system. The resulting mean offset yield force was analyzed within each group using paired t-tests.

RESULTS

The mean offset yield force for the control patellae was greater than the experimental patellae in group 1. In groups 2 and 3, the experimental patellae produced a greater mean offset yield force than the control patellae. Comparison within each group did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Bone loss with enlargement of the patellar fixation holes, as is frequently seen in revision TKA, with holes up to 12 mm, does not significantly decrease patellar component fixation shear strength in this biomechanical cadaveric study.

[Implantation of a tantalum patella during revision surgery]

OBJECTIVE

The reconstruction or restoration of a functioning patella for active extension and flexion by implantation of a tantalum patella. In spite of larger osseous defects of the patella, the goal is to achieve sufficient extensor mechanism function.

INDICATIONS

Patients who have such a large bone defect in the area of the patella that implantation of a traditional patella replacement is not possible. In addition, patients with a peri-implant fracture of the patella can be treated with a tantalum patella and additional plate osteosynthesis.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Absence of a cortical basic structure of the patella. Complete loss of the patella or the extensor mechanism. Periprosthetic infection.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

The patella is completely excised. Subsequently, the back surface of the patella is milled to anchor the tantalum structure as accurately as possible without cement. This is fixed circularly after desired positioning by means of nonresorbable suture. Finally, the polyethylene back surface replacement is cemented onto the back surface of the tantalum structure.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

The patients have a limitation of flexion of 0-0-90° at 20 kilogram partial weight bearing for 12 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 10 patients who received a tantalum patella between 2013 and 2019 were retrospectively included. A tantalum patella was implanted in 9 patients with a large patellar defect. In one case a tantalum patella with additional plate osteosynthesis was implanted to treat a peri-implant fracture of the patella. Loosening of the tantalum patella was observed in 1 patient, while in another patient postoperative arthrofibrosis was observed. In 2 cases a postoperative superficial wound healing disorder was detected. Two patients had a persistent infection with subsequent complete explantation of the prosthesis.

Patellar complications following total knee arthroplasty: a review of the current literature

Total knee arthroplasty is a common operation for treating patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis and generally has a good outcome. There are several complications that may necessitate revision of the implants. Patella-related complications are difficult to treat, and their consequences impact the longevity of the implanted joint and functional outcomes. In this review, we explore the current literature on patellar complications in total knee arthroplasty and identify risk factors as well as strategies that can help in preventing these complications. We present pertinent findings relating to patellar complications. They can be classified into bony or soft tissue complications and include bone loss, aseptic loosening, periprosthetic fractures, patella fracture, patellar clunk syndrome, patellofemoral instability, extensor mechanism complications, maltracking, patella baja and malrotation. We conclude that patellar complications in total knee arthroplasty are common and have significant implications for the functional outcome of total knee arthroplasty. A high index of suspicion should be maintained in order to avoid them. Implant malpositioning and other forms of intraoperative technical error are the main cause of these complications, and therefore, primary prevention is crucial. When dealing with these established problems, a clear plan of action should be formulated in advance to allow appropriate management as well as anticipation of adverse outcomes.

Ignore the Patella in Revision Total Knee Surgery: A Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up With Patella Component Retention

BACKGROUND

In the setting of aseptic revision, a common question is: what should be done with the previously resurfaced patella? We report on a series of aseptic revision total knee arthroplasties (RTKA) where one or both components were revised and the patella was not.

METHODS

The study group was 147 consecutive RTKA in 137 patients with a mean age of 70.1 ± 9.3 years where the patella was not revised. The average body mass index was 31.0 ± 5.4 kg/m². Follow-up was a minimum of 5 years (range, 5 to 12 years). At final follow-up, 13 patients died and 2 patients were lost to follow-up leaving 122 patients and 130 knees available for review. Mean time from primary surgery to RTKA was 9.2 ± 5.5 years. Both components were revised in 50 knees, the femur only in 11 knees, the tibia only in 12 knees, and 57 had an isolated polyethylene revision. We found 5 patients with a mismatch between the patella and femoral components and 30 cases with patella component wear identified intraoperatively.

RESULTS

At final follow-up, there were no reoperations on any patella and none were at risk of failure. There were 6 knees with a lateral patella tilt beyond 10°, but none were subluxed. Knee Society Scores averaged 85 ± 17.2 points at final follow-up.

CONCLUSION

At midterm follow-up in this group of RTKA where the patella was not revised, we identified no subsequent failures of the patella. This is despite the presence of mild patella polyethylene wear and mismatched shapes in several knees.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

What Is the Risk of Repeat Revision When Patellofemoral Replacement Is Revised to TKA? An Analysis of 482 Cases From a Large National Arthroplasty Registry

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral replacements (PFRs) have a higher rate of revision than unicompartmental knee arthroplasty or TKA. However, there is little information regarding why PFRs are revised, the components used for these revisions, or the outcome of the revision procedure. Some contend that PFR is a bridging procedure that can easily be revised to a TKA with similar results as a primary TKA; however, others dispute this suggestion.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) In the setting of a large national registry, what were the reasons for revision of PFR to TKA and was the level of TKA constraint used in the revision associated with a subsequent risk of rerevision? (2) Is the risk of revision of the TKA used to revise a PFR greater than the risk of revision after a primary TKA and greater than the risk of rerevision after revision TKA?

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association Joint Replacement Registry through December 31, 2016, for TKA revision procedures after PFR. Because revisions for infection may be staged procedures resulting in further planned operations, for the revision analyses, these were excluded. There were 3251 PFRs, 482 of which were revised to TKA during the 17-year study period. The risk of second revision was calculated using Kaplan-Meier estimates of survivorship for PFRs revised to TKAs, and that risk was compared with the risk of first revision after TKA and also with the risk of a second revision after revision TKA. Hazard ratios (HRs) from Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare second revision rates among the different levels of prosthesis constraint used in the index revision after PFR (specifically, cruciate-retaining versus cruciate-substituting).

RESULTS

The main reasons for revising a PFR to TKA were progression of disease (56%), loosening (17%), and pain (12%). With the numbers available for analysis, there was no difference in the risk of a second revision when a PFR was revised to a cruciate-retaining TKA than when it was revised to a cruciate-substituting TKA (HR, 1.24 [0.65-2.36]; p = 0.512). A total of 204 (42%) of the PFR revisions had the patella component revised when the PFR was converted to a TKA. There difference in rates of second revision when the patella component was revised or not revised (HR, 1.01 [0.55-1.85]; p = 0.964). When we eliminated the devices that ceased to be used before 2005 (older devices), we found no change in the overall risk of repeat revision. The risk of a PFR that was revised to a TKA undergoing a second revision was greater than the risk of TKA undergoing a first revision (HR, 2.39 [1.77-3.24]; p < 0.001), but it was less than the risk of a revision TKA undergoing a second revision (HR, 0.60 [0.43-0.81]; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of second revision when a PFR is revised is not altered if cruciate-retaining or posterior-stabilized TKA is used for the revision nor if the patella component is revised or not revised. The risk of repeat revision after revision of a PFR to a TKA was much higher than the risk of revision after a primary TKA, and these findings did not change when we analyzed only devices in use since 2005. When PFR is used for the management of isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis, patients should be counselled not only about the high revision rate of the primary procedure, but also the revision rate after TKA. Further studies regarding the functional outcomes of these procedures may help clarify the value of PFRs and subsequent revisions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Patellar complications after total knee arthroplasty

Patellar complications are a source of poor total knee arthroplasty (TKA) outcomes that can require re-operation or prosthetic revision. Complications can occur with or without patellar resurfacing. The objective of this work is to answer six questions. (1) Have risk factors been identified, and can they help to prevent patellar complications? Patellar complications are associated with valgus, obesity, lateral retinacular release, and a thin patella. Selecting a prosthetic trochlea that will ensure proper patellar tracking is important. Resurfacing is an option if patellar thickness is greater than 12mm. (2) What is the best management of patellar fracture? The answer depends on two factors: (a) is the extensor apparatus disrupted? and (b) is the patellar implant loose? When either factor is present, revision surgery is needed (extensor apparatus reconstruction, prosthetic implant removal). When neither factor is present, non-operative treatment is the rule. (3) What is the best management of patellar instability? Rotational malalignment should be sought. In the event of femoral and/or tibial rotational malalignment, revision surgery should be considered. If not performed, options consist of medial patello-femoral ligament reconstruction and/or medialization tibial tuberosity osteotomy. (4) What is the best management of patellar clunk syndrome? When physiotherapy fails, arthroscopic resection can be considered. Recurrence can be treated by open resection, despite the higher risk of complications with this method. (5) What is the best management of anterior knee pain? The patient should be evaluated for causes amenable to treatment (fracture, instability, clunk, osteonecrosis, bony impingement on the prosthetic trochlea). If patellar resurfacing was performed, loosening should be considered. Otherwise, secondary resurfacing is appropriate only after convincingly ruling out other causes of pain. A painstaking evaluation is mandatory before repeat surgery for anterior knee pain: surgery is not in order in the 10% to 15% of cases that have no identifiable explanation. (6) What can be done to treat patellar defects? Available options include re-implantation (with bone grafting, cement, a biconvex implant, or a metallic frame), bone grafting without re-implantation, patellar reconstruction, patellectomy (best avoided due to the resulting loss of strength), osteotomy, and extensor apparatus allograft reconstruction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V, expert opinion.

A classification-based approach to the patella in revision total knee arthroplasty

Background

There is a paucity of data to guide management of the patella in revision total knee arthroplasty (RTKA). The purpose of this study was to review our experience with patellar management in RTKA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 422 consecutive RTKAs at a minimum of 2 years (mean, 42 months). Patellar management was guided by a classification that considered stability, size, and position of the implanted patellar component, thickness/quality of remaining bone stock, and extensor mechanism competence.

Results

Management in 304 aseptic revisions included retention of a well-fixed component in 212 (69.7%) and revision using an all-polyethylene component in 46 (15.1%). Patella-related complications included 5 extensor mechanism ruptures (1.6%), 3 cases of patellar maltracking (1.0%), and 2 periprosthetic patellar fractures (0.7%). Of 118 2-stage revisions for infection, an all-polyethylene component was used in 88 (74.6%), patelloplasty in 20 (16.9%), and patellectomy in 7 (5.9%). Patella-related complications included 4 cases of patellar maltracking (3.4%), 3 extensor mechanism ruptures (2.5%), and 1 periprosthetic patellar fracture (0.8%).

Conclusions

Septic revisions required concomitant lateral releases more frequently (38.1% vs 10.9%; P < .02) but had a similar rate of patellar complications (6.8% vs 3.3%; P = .40). No cases required rerevision specifically for failure of the patellar component. Patients who had a patelloplasty had worse postoperative Knee Society functional scores than those with a retained or revised patellar component. In most aseptic RTKAs, a well-fixed patellar component can be retained. If revision is required, a standard polyethylene component is sufficient in most septic and aseptic revisions. Rerevisions related to the patellar component are infrequent.

Revision knee surgery techniques

Revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) is a challenging, complex procedure. A comprehensive understanding of the anatomy, challenges and pitfalls is essential to achieve a good outcome for the patient.This review discusses the determinants of good outcomes of rTKA. These include, among other factors, the choice of the surgical approach, removal of the components, adequate reconstruction of the joint line and posterior condylar offset and the use of offset stems, as well as choosing the appropriate level of constraint.The modularity of many modern knee revision systems can help to address such issues as anatomical mismatch, gap balancing and malalignment.A well-planned surgical approach must be used in rTKA. A thorough understanding of related knee anatomy is essential.The incidence of joint-line elevation after rTKA is high. Contralateral radiographs, as well as algorithms based on the relationship between bony landmarks and the joint line, can help to reconstruct a physiological joint line during rTKA.Modularity added to systems, such as offset stems, are useful enhancements that may further improve the reconstruction of the anatomy.There are several options for managing the patella, with the best choice depending on the status of the patellar component and residual bone stock. Cite this article: Thienpont E. Revision knee surgery techniques. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1: 233-238. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000024.

[Causes and management of patellar instability after total knee replacement : Lateralization, subluxation and luxation]

BACKGROUND

Patellofemoral complications after total knee arthroplasty are responsible for a variety of surgical revisions.

OBJECTIVE

The causes of the various types of instability of the patella are listed in a differentiated way and the importance of clinical and imaging diagnostics as well as preventive strategies are elaborated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This article is based on a selective literature search in the PubMed database and on the long-standing experience of the author.

RESULTS

Besides postoperative genu valgum with malalignment of the extensor mechanisms, other risk factors for patellar maltracking are insufficiency of the medial retinaculum, weakening of the vastus medialis muscle, contracture of the quadriceps femoris or tractus iliotibialis muscle, residual valgus deformity after total knee replacement, femoral or tibial malrotation as well as malpositioning of the patella, inappropriate design of the prosthesis and asymmetrical resection of the patella. The causes with respect to incorrect component positioning, faulty preparation of the patella, leg malalignment, inappropriate design of the prosthesis and soft tissue imbalance have to be recognized in order to address the problem in a targeted way. The preferred method of choice in the case of patellofemoral instability after total knee replacement is normally surgery; however, the cause for the instability has to be identified and consequently corrected before surgery. Without a clearly identified cause surgical measures are unrewarding and almost regularly lead to an unsatisfactory outcome.

CONCLUSION

Patella maltracking after total knee arthroplasty is multifactorial and requires an accurate clarification. A surgical revision is only recommended in cases of clearly defined causes of pain or a clearly defined reason for patella malpositioning.

What Is the Role for Patelloplasty With Gullwing Osteotomy in Revision TKA?

BACKGROUND

Management of the patella in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging as a result of the deficient or unusable bone stock for patellar resurfacing that is frequently encountered. Options proposed in this setting include various patelloplasty procedures, patellectomy, and special patellar components. We sought to better define the role and results of one patelloplasty procedure, the gullwing osteotomy, used in revision TKA.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) How much improvement in the outcome measures of range of motion and Knee Society scores was seen after revision TKA with a gullwing osteotomy? (2) What are the radiographic results of this osteotomy as judged by patellar healing and patellar tracking? (3) What complications are associated with the gullwing osteotomy in revision TKA?

METHODS

Between December 2003 and July 2012, we used a gullwing osteotomy on patients undergoing revision TKA (n = 238) in which the patellar remnant was avascular or less than 12 mm thick. This uncommon procedure was used in 17 of 115 (15%) of the patellae revised during this time. We performed manual chart reviews on all patients to collect preoperative and postoperative range of motion and Knee Society scores as well as radiographic review at last followup to assess patellar healing and tracking.

RESULTS

In patients with at least 2 years of followup, the preoperative range of motion was a median -7.5° of extension (interquartile range [IQR], -15°-0°) and 90° of flexion (IQR, 90°-100°). Postoperative extension improved to 0° (IQR, 0°-0°; p = 0.015). With the numbers available, median flexion arc did not change at last followup (110°; IQR, 95°-120°; p = 0.674). The Knee Society score improved from a combined (clinical + functional) mean of 86 (95% confidence interval [CI], 56-116) preoperatively to 142 (95% CI, 121-163; p < 0.001) postoperatively. Radiographically, 12 of 13 patients demonstrated healing of the osteotomy with osseous union and one patient healed with a fibrous union. Nine of the 10 patients with at least 2 years of followup had a centrally tracking gullwing osteotomized patella at last followup. One patient, with just over 3 years of followup, exhibited lateral subluxation without evidence of fracture. Three of the 10 patients with greater than 2 years of followup developed recurrent infections. One patient had avascular necrosis with fragmentation of the patella at 4 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Patellar bone stock is often compromised in revision TKA, leaving the surgeon with very few options for reconstruction. Using this technique, we found acceptable function, no aseptic rerevisions for patellofemoral complications, nine of 10 of patellae tracking within the trochlear groove, and radiographic healing of the majority of the osteotomies. The gullwing osteotomy may be considered an option in these difficult revisions, but further studies with more complete followup are needed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study.

The impact of patellar resurfacing in two-stage revision of the infected total knee arthroplasty

Evidence for optimal management of the patellofemoral joint in revision surgery for the infected TKA is limited. We reviewed 69 infected TKAs undergoing two-stage revision. Fifty four patellae were resurfaced, 11 had patelloplasty performed, two were augmented with trabecular metal, one had impaction grafting, and one knee underwent patellectomy. Average follow-up was 4.5 years. The patients that received patellar resurfacing at re-implantation experienced statistically significant improvements in KSS pain score, functional KSS, and patellar score (P < 0.03). One further patient treated with impaction grafting improved significantly in terms of pain and function. Patients treated with patelloplasty, trabecular metal augmentation, or patellectomy did not have significant improvements in clinical or functional outcome. Patient age, use of dynamic vs. static spacer, use of extensor mechanism release, and differences in Charlson index did not seem to statistically affect outcome. We recommend that every effort should be made to minimize patellar bone loss in first stage resection, as inability to resurface the patella at time of reimplantation may adversely affect patient outcome.

Trabecular metal patella--is it really doomed to fail in the totally patellar-deficient knee? A case report of patellar reconstruction with a novel technique

Reconstruction of the patella poses real problems for the revision TKR surgeon, particularly when the patella is absent, fractured or profoundly deficient. The trabecular metal patella was introduced in an attempt to address these issues. However the largest series of such cases published to date cast serious doubts on the validity of using Trabecular Metal (TM) in cases where there is no residual patellar bone stock at all. We present a case where the TM Patellar implant has survived satisfactorily for 8 years post reconstruction in a knee with no residual patella bone, resulting in greatly improved symptoms and function. We believe that this success might be related to specific technical details in the reconstruction and we present the technique.

Porous tantalum patellar components in revision total knee arthroplasty minimum 5-year follow-up

Revision total knee arthroplasty can be complicated by severe patellar bone loss, precluding the use of standard cemented patellar components. This study evaluated the midterm outcomes of porous tantalum (PT) patellar components. Twenty-three PT components were used in 6 men and 17 women (average age, 62 years). All patellae had less than 10-mm residual thickness. The PT shell was secured to host bone, and a 3-peg polyethylene component was cemented onto the shell. In 2 patients, the PT component was sutured directly to extensor mechanism. Average follow-up was 7.7 years (range, 5-10 years). At follow-up, the Knee Society scores for pain and function averaged 82.7 and 33.3, respectively, whereas the mean Oxford knee score was 32.6. Four patients underwent revision surgery. Survivorship was 19 (83%) of 23 patients. Porous tantalum patellar components can provide fixation where severe bone loss precludes the use of traditional implants. Failures were associated with avascular residual bone and fixation of components to the extensor mechanism.

Review article: bone defect classifications in revision total knee arthroplasty

There are several classification systems for bone defects in revision total knee arthroplasty. Each has its own drawbacks, and none satisfies all the clinical demands. Therefore, a new classification system and treatment guideline based on a combination of criteria (location, side, containment, and severity of the bone defect) is necessary.

The cemented inset biconvex patella in revision knee arthroplasty

Evaluation of a cemented biconvex inset patellar component used in revision knee arthroplasty at minimum five year follow-up was undertaken. Of the initial cohort of 89 knees in 85 patients, two patellar implants were revised for aseptic loosening following a transverse fracture of the patella associated with avascular necrosis. A further four implants were judged radiographically loose. Aseptic loosening of the implant was strongly correlated with the presence of avascular necrosis radiographically. Fracture of the patellar bone remnant was associated with a radiographically measured thickness of residual patellar bone of less than 6 mm. Survivorship of the implant using aseptic revision as the endpoint was 98% at 10 years and 86% at 14 years given one late failure. We conclude that the cemented biconvex inset patellar component can give satisfactory results in revision of patellar components if avascular necrosis does not occur.