Abstract
Isolated patellofemoral arthritis is a common, often debilitating, condition with a number of treatment options available. Avon patellofemoral arthroplasty has been practiced in our district general hospital setting with favourable results. Previous studies have been mainly from the pioneering Bristol centre.
We present the findings of the intermediate results of Avon patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) used in the treatment of isolated patellofemoral arthritis.
From 1999 until August 2006, 63 Avon PFA were carried out in 46 patients by a single surgeon. We analysed retrospectively the patient case records and collected data regarding clinical, radiological findings along with patient satisfaction scores using the Oxford knee questionnaire.
45/46 (98%) patients had primary patellofemoral (PF) arthritis. 17/46 (36%) patients suffered from bilateral PF arthritis. The average duration of follow up was 5 years (3 months to 7 years). There were 7 males and 39 females with a median age of 63 years. The average range of movement was 120° (90°–140°). There was no observable radiological loosening. There was a reduction in the Oxford knee score from 33 (21–48) to 17 (1–44). Complications of the procedure included superficial infections (2/46), transient foot drop (1/46), and persistent pain (2/46). Further surgery requiring lateral release was carried out in 2/46 patients. To date, none of the cases have required revision due to progression of arthritis. Patients reported high level of satisfaction following the procedure.
Avon PFA is an effective procedure for the treatment of isolated patellofemoral arthritis, with a low rate of complications and good functional results. To our knowledge, this is the first study in UK outside Bristol, presenting the findings of intermediate results of Avon PFA.
Correspondence should be addressed to: Tim Wilton, BASK, c/o BOA, The Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE.
