Knee Cap Replacement Surgery (Patellofemoral Arthroplasty)
Knee cap arthritis can lead to persistent pain at the front of the knee, reduced mobility, and difficulty with daily or sporting activities. Dr Foo provides careful assessment and tailored treatment, including knee cap replacement where appropriate, to relieve symptoms, support recovery, and help you return to an active lifestyle.
MBBS (University of London) | MMed (Ortho) | FRCSEd (Ortho) | FAMS (Ortho)
What Is Knee Cap Replacement?
Knee cap replacement, also called patellofemoral
arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where only the damaged surfaces of the
kneecap (patella) and the groove at the end of the thigh bone (trochlea) are replaced
with implants.
Unlike a total
knee replacement, knee cap replacement is a type of partial knee replacement
that preserves the healthy parts of the knee joint while specifically targeting
the patellofemoral compartment affected by arthritis.
This approach can help to delay or avoid the need for a full knee
replacement. Other types of partial knee replacement treat the inner (medial)
or outer (lateral) compartments of the knee, depending on where arthritis is located.
When Might a Knee Cap Replacement Be Considered?
Knee cap replacement is considered when pain and disability are caused by isolated
patellofemoral arthritis, where cartilage damage is limited to the kneecap and its
groove. This may result from cartilage wear, previous trauma, recurrent dislocations, or
long-standing malalignment of the patella.
The procedure may be recommended if you experience:
- Persistent pain at the front of the knee that does not improve with conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, activity modification, or injection-based therapies like corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections
- Pain or grinding specifically during activities that load the kneecap, such as climbing stairs, squatting, or standing up from a seated position
- Loss of mobility or difficulty maintaining your usual level of daily activities, exercise, or sports participation
If arthritis affects multiple parts of the knee, a total knee replacement may be more appropriate.
Who Might Be Suitable for Knee Cap Replacement?
Knee cap replacement may benefit individuals who:
- Are typically between 40 and 65 years old with isolated kneecap arthritis, as younger patients may respond better to conservative treatments since implants may wear out if placed too early
- Have a history of patellar instability or injury, where repeated dislocations or trauma mainly damage the patellofemoral compartment while the rest of the knee remains healthy
- Wish to pursue a less invasive option than total knee replacement while preserving healthy bone and tissue
It is generally not suitable for those with widespread osteoarthritis, severe knee deformity, or unstable knee ligaments.
Over time, wear and tear can damage the cartilage behind the kneecap, leading to patellofemoral arthritis that causes pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty with daily activities. If you are experiencing persistent and severe knee cap pain, consult a knee specialist today for a proper diagnosis and treatment. How Long Does a Knee Cap Replacement Last?
A knee cap replacement typically lasts 10 to 20 years, though
outcomes vary depending on age, activity level, implant type, and overall knee health.
Many individuals experience significant pain relief and improved function for more than a decade.
Factors that can influence how long a knee cap replacement lasts include:
- Age at the time of surgery
- Body weight and overall joint load
- Level of physical activity, particularly high-impact sports
- Type and quality of implant used
- Adherence to rehabilitation and follow-up care
In some cases, arthritis may also progress in other compartments of the knee, requiring a conversion
to a total knee replacement in the future.
Regular follow-up with your orthopaedic surgeon or specialist helps monitor implant condition and
address new symptoms early if they develop.
How Is Knee Cap Replacement Performed?
Knee cap replacement is usually performed as an open procedure under regional or general anaesthesia. The key steps include:
- Incision – A small incision is made at the front of the knee to access the joint.
- Removal of Damaged Surfaces – The worn cartilage on the underside of the patella and the trochlear groove is carefully removed.
- Implant Placement – A plastic button is fixed to the underside of the kneecap, while a metal implant is fitted to the groove of the thigh bone. These components glide smoothly to restore joint movement.
- Closure – The incision is closed with sutures, and the knee is bandaged.
The surgery typically lasts one to two hours, followed by a hospital stay of one to three days during which pain management, wound care, and early physiotherapy are started.
Knee Cap Replacement Recovery
Recovery from knee cap replacement usually progresses more quickly than total knee replacement, but rehabilitation is still necessary. A typical timeline may include:
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| First few days | Pain and swelling are managed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other prescribed medication, ice, and elevation, and most individuals begin walking with crutches or a walker under guidance. |
| 2 to 6 weeks | Daily activities are gradually resumed, supported by physiotherapy exercises that help restore knee strength and mobility. |
| 6 to 12 weeks | Knee function improves, and most individuals are typically able to resume light exercises such as cycling or swimming while reducing reliance on walking aids. |
| 3 to 6 months | Functional mobility is largely regained, though recovery time and activity levels may still vary depending on lifestyle and overall health. |
What Are the Potential Risks of Knee Cap Replacement?
Knee cap replacement is widely regarded as a reliable procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries potential risks. These may include:
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion, which is common in the early recovery period but may persist in some cases
- Infection at the surgical site
- Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis)
Disclaimer: The risks outlined above are not exhaustive. It is advisable to consult and discuss these risks with your orthopaedic surgeon, who can explain their relevance to your individual clinical circumstances.
What Is the Cost of Knee Cap Replacement in Singapore?
The cost of knee cap replacement in Singapore can vary depending on your healthcare provider, surgeon’s fees, type of implants used, and length of hospital stay.
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Knee Cap Replacement (Patellofemoral Arthroplasty) | From $15,000 |
Estimated costs generally include the surgical procedure itself and standard post-operative care.
Additional charges may apply for items such as pre-surgical investigations, hospital accommodation,
follow-up visits, and physiotherapy sessions during recovery.
Insurance may cover part of the knee cap replacement cost, depending on eligibility and the specific
procedure. It is best to check with your insurer to confirm the details of your coverage.
Every patient deserves a treatment plan tailored to their needs. We start with non-surgical approaches before considering more invasive interventions.
Dr Foo Gen Lin
Find a Knee Specialist Near Me
Apex Novena
admin@apexsportsclinic.sg
101 Irrawaddy Rd, #18-12 Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565
Nearest MRT: NS20 Novena
Apex East Coast
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112 E Coast Rd, #03-03/04 i12 Katong, Singapore 428802
Nearest MRT: TE26 Marine Parade
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We prioritise personalised, non-invasive solutions, progressing to specialised treatments, including surgery, only when needed for more effective and targeted care.
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From diagnosis to rehabilitation, we provide comprehensive and seamless care for a wide range of orthopaedic conditions.
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We combine expert injury management with a proactive approach to maintaining your body’s strength and function, so you can recover fully and perform at your peak.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Recovery after knee cap replacement usually takes three to six months, but most people resume light daily activities within six weeks. Early physiotherapy supports both pain relief and mobility, with gradual progression to low-impact exercise. Full recovery varies depending on age, health, and rehabilitation progress. It is best to consult your orthopaedic surgeon for an estimated timeline based on your individual condition and surgery.
Knee cap replacement is considered a major surgery because it involves open joint surgery under anaesthesia and the placement of implants. However, it is less extensive than a total knee replacement since only the patellofemoral compartment is resurfaced, which may allow for quicker recovery in suitable individuals such as those with isolated kneecap arthritis and otherwise healthy knee compartments.
Knee cap replacement generally provides significant pain relief and functional improvement in individuals with isolated patellofemoral arthritis, with implants lasting 10 to 20 years. Outcomes depend on factors such as age, activity level, and progression of arthritis in other compartments of the knee. It is advisable to consult a knee specialist or surgeon to determine whether the procedure is appropriate for your condition.
Yes, it is possible to replace just the kneecap through a procedure called patellofemoral arthroplasty, which resurfaces the kneecap and the groove in which it moves. This type of partial knee replacement is intended for cases where damage is limited to the kneecap compartment while the rest of the knee remains healthy. If arthritis involves other parts of the knee, a total knee replacement may be more suitable. It is advisable to consult an orthopaedic specialist or surgeon to determine if the condition is suitable for your condition.
Knee cap replacement is usually associated with post-operative pain, particularly in the first few weeks, which is usually managed with medication, physiotherapy, and gradual mobilisation. Pain typically improves as healing progresses, and most individuals experience long-term relief compared to pre-surgery symptoms. If you are concerned about pain from the surgery, it is advisable to discuss this with your orthopaedic surgeon or specialist.
You may need a knee cap replacement if you have persistent pain at the front of the knee that does not improve with conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, activity modification, or injections. Suitability also depends on factors such as age, overall joint health, and whether arthritis affects other parts of the knee. It is advisable to consult an orthopaedic surgeon or specialist to determine if the procedure is appropriate for your condition.
The cost of knee cap replacement in Singapore varies depending on the hospital, surgeon’s fees, type of implant used, and length of stay. At Apex Sports Clinic, we provide knee cap replacement surgery only when conservative treatments are no longer effective, with costs starting from SGD $15,000. Estimated costs generally include the surgery and routine post-operative care, with additional charges for assessments, hospital stay, and physiotherapy. Insurance may cover part of the cost, but it is best to check with your insurer to confirm your coverage.
Most people can usually begin walking with the support of crutches or a walker within a day of knee cap replacement under physiotherapy guidance. Walking ability improves gradually as pain and swelling settle, with many walking independently within a few weeks. Long-term, the procedure aims to restore functional mobility and allow return to daily and low-impact activities. It is advisable to consult your orthopaedic surgeon or physiotherapist regarding walking after the surgery.
Short-term problems that may occur after knee cap replacement include stiffness, swelling, infection, persistent pain in the early recovery period, or blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis). These issues are uncommon and are usually managed with medication, physiotherapy, and preventive measures during hospitalisation, but some may require further treatment. If you are concerned about these risks, it is best to discuss them with your orthopaedic surgeon.