Intraoperative issues concerning the patellofemoral mechanism during total knee arthroplasty.

The patellofemoral joint historically has been a significant source of poor clinical outcomes in total knee arthroplasty. Patellar maltracking, peeling of the patellar tendon insertion, and difficult exposure are conditions that must be addressed and corrected during surgery. A surgeon with a repertoire of techniques to handle patellofemoral problems intraoperatively can prevent or correct these problems with confidence.