Thirty-three patients were evaluated after patellectomy for subjective
complaints, objective physical findings, quadriceps strength, and knee
motion during activities of daily living. Partial and complete patellectomy
caused an equal loss of active and passive range of motion. Complete
patellectomy resulted in greater ligament instability, quadriceps atrophy,
and loss of quadriceps strength compared with partial patellectomy.
Complete patellectomy casued a reduction in the degree of stance-phase
flexion during level walking and negotiating stairs.