Patellar clunk syndrome: A rare cause of painful knee after total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

Although total knee arthroplasty is a successful procedure, postoperative residual knee pain after total knee arthroplasty is still the major factor that contributes to patient dissatisfaction. Even after resurfacing the patella, residual anterior knee pain is the most frequent complaint. Numerous etiologies have been associated with residual pain, including mid-flexion instability, aseptic loosening, infection, and patellar maltracking due to component malalignment. Other rare etiologies like patellar clunk syndrome could also cause residual knee pain after total knee arthroplasty. Through this case report of a patellar clunk syndrome successfully treated with arthroscopic resection, we discuss the etiopathogeny, diagnostic challenge, and treatment of this rare entity.