Preservation vs. resection of the infrapatellar fat pad during total knee arthroplasty Part I: A survey of current practice in the UK

Abstract Background The management of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the subject of ongoing debate. In part 1 of this two-part series, we present an overview of current practice regarding the management of the IPFP in elective TKA among surgeons in the UK. Methods A web-based survey was offered to 269 delegates of the BASK 2017 annual conference. Results The survey showed a large variation in practice. Of the 173 responders, 86.7% were consultants; 62.4% partially resected the IPFP; 23.1% totally resected the IPFP, and 9.8% preserved it. Forty percent felt that resection made a difference. Only 23% stated that they were aware of guidelines/evidence. Conclusion There is wide variation in practice with regard to the IPFP in TKA. The available literature with regard to resection or preservation of the IPFP is not conclusive. Implications There are no definitive guidelines available for the management of the IPFP in TKA resulting in a wide variation in practice amongst surgeons.