Implanting or not implanting the patellar component (PC) in knee prosthesis (TKP) is a controversial subject.
In an attempt to clarify this controversy, we have reviewed grade 1 and 2 scientific evidence articles.
The percentage of anterior knee pain without PC ranges from 17%to 69%versus 5.3%鈥?7%when the PC is placed. Without PC, the percentage of reoperation goes from 0%to 20%, this being from 0%to 13%when the PC is implanted. A prospective study has demonstrated that the Outerbridge classification serves to decide on whether to perform a PC implant or not.
The controversial is still unsolved. For some authors, it is better to always place a PC. However, others state that it is not necessary to do so in Outerbridge grades I, II and III, being recommendable to do so in grade IV.