Optimal Patellar Management Unveiled for Total Knee Arthroplasty: Resurfacing Proves Superior in Meta-Analysis

A recent study conducted a comprehensive network meta-analysis compared four patellar management interventions for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The study encompassed 50 randomized controlled trials with 9,283 patients and identified patellar resurfacing as the optimal approach, showcasing lower postoperative reoperation rates and anterior knee pain compared to non-resurfacing methods. Notably, patellar resurfacing demonstrated superior postoperative Knee Society Scores. While these findings suggest a preferred management modality, the study underscores the need for future research to address heterogeneity and confounding factors for more conclusive outcomes.