A Meta-Analysis of Patellar Replacement in Total Knee Arthroplasty for Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Twenty randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis comparing Knee Society Clinical and Function Scores, reoperation rate, the incidence of anterior knee pain, and the incidence of infection between total knee arthroplasty completed with and without patellar resurfacing. Where applicable, subgroup analysis was performed based on follow-up time of 1-2 years and >2 years. Pooled results demonstrated significant differences in favour of patellar resurfacing for Knee Society Clinical Score and reoperation rate within 1-2 years postoperatively; pooled results at >2 years demonstrated no significant difference between groups for these outcomes. All analyses assessing Knee Society Function Score, the incidence of anterior knee pain, and the incidence of infection demonstrated no significant differences between resurfacing group and nonresurfacing group.