Patellofemoral joint replacement is a highly effective option for patients whose knee arthritis is limited to the underside of the kneecap and its groove in the femur.
Dr. Duff offers robotic-assisted patellofemoral replacement for appropriately selected patients across Western Australia.
A patellofemoral replacement resurfaces the contact area between the back of the kneecap (patella) and the trochlear groove at the end of the thigh bone. The procedure uses:
This allows the kneecap to glide smoothly, reducing pain and restoring function. The main tibiofemoral compartments (the inner and outer parts of the knee) are left untouched if healthy, making this a joint-preserving procedure.
This procedure is best for patients with:
Dr. Duff will assess your suitability using detailed imaging and clinical examination. A key factor is ensuring the rest of the knee is healthy enough to benefit from a partial approach.
This partial knee procedure offers faster recovery, less stiffness, and a more natural feel than total replacement. Ideal for patients with isolated patellofemoral arthritis and healthy surrounding joint structures.
Its benefits include:
As a type of partial knee replacement, this procedure preserves the main weight-bearing parts of the knee while restoring smooth movement and relieving pain.
As with any orthopaedic procedure, risks include:
Dr. Duff’s experience and advanced imaging techniques help reduce the risk of early revision.
What to expect before, during, and after surgery, from the minimally invasive procedure to early mobilisation and your hospital stay.
Hospital Stay:
Recovery Timeline:
Choosing between a patellofemoral replacement and a total knee replacement depends on the distribution of arthritis:
The most common reason for revision of a patellofemoral implant is arthritis developing in the other compartments of the knee. In such cases, conversion to a total knee replacement is typically straightforward.
If you have kneecap arthritis that has not responded to physiotherapy or other non-surgical treatments, patellofemoral replacement may offer relief while preserving your natural knee.
Dr. Samuel Duff provides comprehensive assessment and surgical care in Perth, WA.