Patellectomy: results of a long-term follow-up
Cantin, S.; Laroche, C.; Lavallée, P.; Lessard, J.M.
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien de Chirurgie 36(5): 461-463
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-428X PMID: 8221403 Document Number: 416220
The authors are in disagreement with the literature on the results of patellectomy after comminuted fracture of the patella. They assessed retrospectively 17 patients who underwent unilateral total patellectomy between 1955 and 1980. Subjective and objective (clinical examination, radiologic examination and Cibex II studies) assessment was carried out for each patient using the contralateral healthy knee as a control. The results demonstrated 88% patient satisfaction, no ligamentous instability and no early arthrosis but a decrease in extensor muscle strength to 75% of normal. The authors conclude that total patellectomy is better tolerated and causes less morbidity than suggested in the literature.