PATELLO FEMORAL
REPLACEMENT

Our Process

In around 10% of patients with knee arthritis, their pain is coming from a worn knee cap. Although patients with this type of arthritis can usually walk with minimal or no pain when on level ground, they suffer from pain when crouching, going up and down stairs, walking on hills and getting out of low chairs. In these patients, and where the majority of the joint is free from arthritis, it is sometimes possible to perform an operation where the back of the patella and the front of the femur are replaced.

Timeline

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STEP 1

Following a consultation with Mr Datta, you will be given a date for surgery.

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STEP 2

You will be called by one of our nursing staff who will conduct a pre-assessment within 2 weeks of your surgery for blood tests and a medical examination

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STEP 3

The operation takes around 40 minutes and involves a small amount o the damaged bone being removed from the front of the femur and back of the patella. The patella Femoral replacement is then cemented into place.

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STEP 4

You will have a 10-15 cm incision over the front of your knee that will be closed with either absorbable sutures or clips.

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STEP 5

The day following your operation you will be seen by the physiotherapist who will get you out of bed and start your exercise with you. By day 2 you would be able to climb the stairs, by 6 weeks you should be able to walk with a stick or crutch.

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STEP 6

After 4 months you should be walking well with no pain and have a good range of motion within the knee.

Treatment Options

Hip/Knee Surgery’s

frequently asked questions

Is a patello femoral replacment the same as a knee replacement?
No, a patelllo femoral replacement is a partial knee replacement where only a part of the knee is replaced
What are some of the risks of this type of surgery?
Any surgery comes with risks, however, with this type of surgery, ligament injuries can occur. There are several ligaments around the knee that require division or repair during surgery and can stretch afterwards, surgery may be required to correct this problem. Another risk is the wear and tear of the components, they will eventually wear over time, approx 10-15 years and may need to be changed or replaced. Any surgery comes with risks, however, with this type of surgery, ligament injuries can occur. There are several ligaments around the knee that require division or repair during surgery and can stretch afterwards, surgery may be required to correct this problem. Another risk is the wear and tear of the components, they will eventually wear over time, approx 10-15 years and may need to be changed or replaced.
How long can I drive after a patello femoral replacement?
When you can walk without a crutch or support, you will be ready to drive, in approximately 3-6 weeks.