Long-term clinical and radiological outcome of Richards type II patellofemoral arthroplasty for isolated patellofemoral arthritis.

Isolated patellofemoral disease is a relatively common degenerative disorder of
the knee. Surgical treatment should be reserved for patients with isolated
patellofemoral arthritis and for whom nonoperative modalities have failed.
Several operative treatment options have been described. With patellofemoral
replacement, only the involved joint compartment is replaced. Therefore, this
may be the treatment of choice in younger patients since total knee replacement
can be performed at a later stage.
However, to determine an optimal treatment strategy, evaluation of the
different variables which determine the long-term outcome of patellofemoral
arthroplasty is necessary (progression of femorotibial osteoarthritis or need
for revision of the patellofemoral replacement because of loosening of the
implant).

To assess the long-term clinical and radiological outcome of the Richards type
II patellofemoral arthroplasty in patients with isolated patellofemoral
arthroplasty.

Observational without intervention(s); cohort study

A single visit to the outpatient clinic for typical follow-up examination after
knee arthroplasties consisting of history and physical examination of the knee,
and four (4) standard X-rays of the knee. Burden and risks associated with
participation are limited.