patellar Resurfacing Shows No Significant Benefit in Knee Replacement, Study Finds
CHICAGO – patellar resurfacing during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) does not demonstrably improve clinical outcomes and may even be associated with increased risks, according to recent findings presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2024 Annual Meeting. The research challenges long-held beliefs about the procedure and could influence surgical approaches for the hundreds of thousands of knee replacements performed annually in the United States.
For decades, surgeons have debated whether to routinely resurface the patella – the kneecap – during TKA. Proponents argued it could reduce anterior knee pain and improve function. Though, this new analysis, encompassing data from multiple trials, suggests that resurfacing offers no consistent advantage in pain relief, range of motion, or patient satisfaction. the findings are particularly relevant as healthcare systems increasingly focus on value-based care and minimizing unneeded procedures.
The study, drawing on data from PubMed-enrolled trials, clinical guidance resources like Healio CME, and recent FDA news, analyzed outcomes in patients who underwent TKA with and without patellar resurfacing. Researchers found no statistically significant difference in patient-reported outcomes at one or two years post-surgery. Furthermore, some analyses indicated a potential increase in complications, such as revision surgery, in the resurfaced group.
“This data really pushes us to re-evaluate our standard practices,” a Healio news report covering the AAOS meeting stated. “If resurfacing isn’t providing a clear benefit,and potentially carries risks,we need to carefully consider whether its truly necessary for each patient.”
The implications of these findings are significant. Approximately 490,000 total knee replacements are performed annually in the U.S.,and patellar resurfacing is a common component of many of those procedures.A shift away from routine resurfacing could lead to reduced surgical time, lower costs, and potentially fewer complications for patients.
Experts emphasize that the decision to resurface the patella should be individualized, based on factors such as the patient’s anatomy, activity level, and the presence of pre-existing patellofemoral pain. Further research is ongoing to identify specific patient subgroups who might benefit from the procedure. Clinicians can stay abreast of the latest developments through resources like Healio’s daily clinical data coverage and guidelines.
