Information for the public

Benefits and risks

Benefits and risks

When NICE looked at the evidence, it decided that there is not much good evidence to show that this procedure works well or is safe. The 2 studies that NICE looked at involved a total of 31 patients.

Generally, they showed the following benefits:

  • improvements in symptoms, including

    • pain when climbing stairs, squatting, running, jumping or when sitting for a long time with knees bent

    • limping, swelling and dislocation

    • muscle wasting

    • ability to flex the knee

    • need for support when walking

    • daily living activities and sports

    • quality of life

  • almost all people were 'satisfied' with the operation

  • no patients had a dislocated kneecap in the 29 months after the operation.

Five people needed more surgery for pain or because the kneecap had become displaced (partly dislocated).

One patient had a suspected infection at the site of the operation, which was treated with antibiotics.

If you want to know more about the studies see the guidance. Ask your health professional to explain anything you don't understand.

  • Information Standard