Patellar complications in total knee arthroplasty. A literature review.

Increased implant longevity, improved range of motion, and the use of total knee arthroplasty in younger and more active patients have placed greater demands on the patella component. Commonly observed complications of the patellofemoral joint are crepitation, subluxation, excessive wear, loosening, and persistent patient discomfort. These complications have been attributed to inadequate prosthetic design, fixation techniques, anatomic abnormalities, and surgical error. This paper reviews the most prevalent complications and discusses their causes and prevention.