Patellar Component

In this chapter, the patellar component in cemented knee arthroplasty is reviewed. The authors’ preferred surgical technique for patellar resurfacing is the onlay method using an all-polyethylene cemented implant. Surgical technique for patellar resurfacing is discussed, including tips to avoid pitfalls and minimize potential complications postoperatively. When resurfacing the patella, specific considerations should be kept in mind to optimize fixation, patellofemoral tracking, and quadriceps muscle efficiency. It is important to restore the combined thickness of the resected patella and implant to the thickness of the native patellar bone. Surgeons should also select patellar implants that will maximize bony coverage. Furthermore, implants should be positioned such that the patellar component lies along the anatomic medial ridge. Patellofemoral complications are a primary reason for revision knee arthroplasty, highlighting the importance of these concepts.