[Indications and contraindications for patellectomy].

We analyzed 40 patients (42 knees) who underwent patellectomy an average of 12 years ago. Although there was good relief of pain with very good function in several patients, we felt that only 48% of the patients could be rated as good or very good, overall. Prognosis was best in patients under the age of 30. Bad prognostic signs were preexisting gonarthrosis and previous total meniscectomy. There was no difference in results for patients who underwent patellectomy acutely, as compared to those who had patellectomy as a secondary procedure. Therefore, we recommend that patella-sparing procedures be utilized first before consideration of patellectomy.