Global RBK Patella-femoral Knee Replacement
The Global RBK patella-femoral knee replacement system is designed for patients with specific degeneration in only one compartment of the knee. In patients with only limited knee arthritis, known as patella-femoral compartment arthritis, surgeons may elect to perform a partial knee replacement. Unlike total knee replacement that removes all the knee joint surfaces, a patella-femoral knee replacement resurfaces only the underside of the patella and the part of the femur that articulates (rubs against) the patella. Some advantages of the Global RBK Patella-femoral Knee Replacement System is that it removes less bone and cartilage, is less painful, enables a more rapid recovery, and provides more natural motion when compared to a total knee replacement.
By retaining all of the undamaged surfaces of the knee as well as most of the ligaments and tendons that stabilize the knee joint the knee may bend and function more naturally.
Knee osteoarthritis only in the patella-femoral portion of the knee joint is relatively rare. However in knees that are otherwise healthy, a patella-femoral knee implant procedure can preserve the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments, potentially preventing or delaying the need for total knee replacement.