Patello-femoral joint in total knee replacement

Summary Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery is a widely used treatment and has a high success rate. Despite its success, the patello-femoral articulation has been overlooked as a contributor to the successful outcome of TKA. Patello-femoral complications remain the leading cause of failed knee replacement, accounting for up to 10% of complications. To understand the concept of patellar mal-tracking, we explore the normal anatomy and biomechanics of the patello-femoral articulation, and review the surgical factors and complications related to patellar tracking, with an aim to discussing the concepts on how to avoid such complications. Surgeons should be aware of the frequent occurrence of abnormal patellar tracking, and should pay particular attention to the patello-femoral component of knee replacement surgery.