The results of retaining a well-fixed patellar component in revision total knee arthroplasty

The results of revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in which a well-fixed patellar component was left in place (retained) were compared with those in which the patellar component was revised to a cemented all-polyethylene component. The patella was retained in 34 cases, 12 of which were metal-backed, and was revised in 39 cases. Data collected on all patients included a Knee Society clinical and radiographic score, SF36, a patellofemoral questionnaire, and a satisfaction survey. There were no differences in clinical score, responses to specific patellofemoral questions, or patient satisfaction between the 2 groups. Retaining a well-fixed patellar component at the time of revision TKA appears to be a viable option with equivalent short-term results to those obtained when the patellar component is revised.