Correcting Lateral Patellar Tilt at the Time of TKA can Result in Overutilization of Lateral Release

Ninety-nine consecutive patients undergoing primary TKA with cruciate-retaining prostheses over an 11-month period were prospectively examined. Intraoperative evaluation included measurement of pre-resurfacing and post-resurfacing patellar thickness and medial patellar lift-off at 30° of flexion without any manual pressure on the patella. Regardless of medial patellar lift-off, no lateral releases were performed. Tibiofemoral angles, patellar tilt, and patellar congruence angles were measured preoperatively and postoperatively.