Patellar management in primary total knee arthroplasty: A narrative review and evidence-based framework for clinical decision-making

Patellar management in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains one of the most debated and variable aspects of contemporary arthroplasty practice. Patellar resurfacing, non-resurfacing, and selective resurfacing each offer distinct advantages, but no universally superior strategy has emerged. Although global functional outcomes are generally comparable across techniques, differences persist in anterior knee pain, survivorship, patellofemoral degeneration, and the likelihood of secondary patellar procedures. This narrative review synthesizes current clinical, radiographic, biomechanical, and registry-based evidence to provide a comprehensive understanding of these differences. Patellar resurfacing tends to offer clearer benefits in patients with advanced patellofemoral osteoarthritis, significant preoperative symptoms, unfavorable patellar morphology, or implant designs that increase patellofemoral loading. Conversely, non-resurfacing remains a safe and effective option in patients with minimal patellofemoral disease and favorable anatomical characteristics. Selective resurfacing represents a patient-tailored compromise, though its effectiveness is currently limited by the absence of standardized selection criteria. The integration of evidence across multiple studies reinforces that patellar resurfacing should follow an individualized, indication-guided approach instead of routine application. It also proposes a structured framework that incorporates anatomical, radiographic, and implant-related factors to guide patellar management during primary TKA.