Clinical evaluation of resurfacing of the patella in posterior-stabilizing total knee replacement.

The authors report their experience in the implantation of 108 posterior-stabilized cemented total knee replacements, where in 43 cases the patella was not resurfaced (group 1) and in 65 in was resurfaced (group 2). The ability to perform daily activities, the subjective function of the patello-femoral joint and the index of patient satisfaction were evaluated by means of a telephone interview; furthermore, a clinical-radiographic evaluation was carried out in 50 cases. The results of the present study indicate the need of resurfacing the patella using a posterior-stabilized prosthetic design, based on the fact that more joint excursion, a low incidence of complications on the patello-femoral joint, and improved ability to perform daily activities were demonstrated.