Most conditions of the patellofemoral joint are successfully treated by physical therapy.  If the condition does not settle satisfactorily then further investigations will be required.  Treatment for recurrent dislocation of the patella requires investigation to determine the cause. It may be necessary to reshape the patella groove, or carry out a realignment procedure.  This is generally successful although in the long-term development of arthritic change is common.

Operations to correct mal-alignment of the patella and the extensor mechanism are moderately successful, but seldom result in an absolutely normal knee. The long term results from these procedures at 15-20 years are not yet known but if there is damage to the articular surface then this will tend to progress eventually leading to arthritic symptoms.  

Results from isolated patellofemoral replacements for severe well-established arthritis showed good results in the short term.  The older designs did not last that long and by 10 years up to 50% of the patients might require a further operation to insert a full knee joint replacement.  

Many of the problems associated with the older designs have been corrected and the recently developed Avon Patella replacement is producing good results at 10 years. The functional results of the joint seem to be good and are similar to those of a complete joint replacement.  Longer term results are not yet known and it is inevitable that a small proportion of knees will deteriorate and require a complete knee joint replacement.

The median pain scores for 496 cases followed for up to 12 years.