Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the benefit and durability of isolated lateral release for advanced osteoarthritis of the lateral facet of the patellofemoral joint.
A retrospective study of 23 knees in 20 patients who had isolated lateral patellofemoral joint arthrosis treated with arthroscopic debridement and limited open lateral release was carried out. Patients completed a specific patellofemoral questionnaire (35 points) including questions for pain and functional improvement and pain and functional Fisual Analogue Scores (VAS). Eighteen knees in 15 patients were clinically and radiologically examined.
Patients averaged 50 years of age and 2 years from surgical treatment. Visual analogue scores for pain improved 28% and function 40% with little radiological change. Similar improvements were seen in the patello femoral specific questionnaire. The results appeared to be durable over the 2 year follow up period.
Lateral release for treatment of isolated arthrosis of the lateral compartment of the patellofemoral joint is an effective, reliable, durable procedure in carefully selected patients.
The abstracts were prepared by Jean-Claude Theis. Correspondence should be addressed to him at Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Dunedin Hospital, Private Bag 1921, Dunedin, New Zealand.
