Learn about Patellectomy Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Patellectomy and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Patellectomy

Patellectomy is a surgical procedure involving the partial or complete removal of the kneecap (patella). In pediatric orthopedics, this intervention is considered a last-resort option for children and adolescents when severe patellar conditions cause debilitating pain, recurrent dislocations, or significant functional impairment that has not responded to extensive conservative management. The goal is to alleviate pain, improve knee stability, and restore mobility, allowing the young patient to return to daily activities. While it alters knee biomechanics, modern surgical techniques aim to preserve as much of the extensor mechanism as possible. This procedure requires specialized expertise in pediatric musculoskeletal growth and development to ensure optimal long-term outcomes.

Key Highlights

    Alleviates chronic, severe knee pain unresponsive to other treatments.Addresses recurrent patellar dislocations or instability.Can restore functional mobility and improve quality of life for the child.Considered a definitive solution for specific traumatic or degenerative patellar conditions.Performed by specialists trained in pediatric bone growth and development.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Severe, comminuted (shattered) patellar fractures that cannot be reconstructed.
  • Chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome or chondromalacia patellae with extensive, irreversible cartilage damage.
  • Recurrent patellar dislocations with significant articular damage.
  • Advanced osteochondritis dissecans of the patella.
  • Patellar tumors (benign or malignant).
  • Failed previous patellar surgeries (e.g., failed fracture fixation).

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation including physical exam, X-rays, and often an MRI to assess cartilage and soft tissues.
  • Detailed discussion with the pediatric orthopedic surgeon about goals, risks, and alternatives.
  • Pre-operative blood tests and medical clearance.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the doctor.
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before surgery as per hospital protocol.
  • Arranging for post-operative support and transportation.

Risks & possible complications

  • Infection at the surgical site.
  • Bleeding or hematoma formation.
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
  • Nerve or blood vessel damage leading to numbness or weakness.
  • Persistent pain, stiffness, or weakness in the knee.
  • Altered knee biomechanics leading to quadriceps weakness or arthritis in the long term.
  • Anesthesia-related risks.
  • Scar tissue formation.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay for initial pain management and monitoring.
  • Knee immobilized in a brace or cast initially, with gradual mobilization as guided.
  • Strict adherence to weight-bearing restrictions (often non-weight bearing initially).
  • Physical therapy is crucial to regain strength, range of motion, and function.
  • Pain management with prescribed medications.
  • Careful wound care and monitoring for signs of infection.
  • Gradual return to activities over several months, with sports often restricted for an extended period.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 2-4 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 3-6 months for full functional recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering patellectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for patellectomy compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 120 Thousand – 350 Thousand 2-4 days ~ 3-6 months for full functional recovery Know More
Turkey TRY 420 Thousand – 1.23 Million 2-4 days ~ 3-6 months for full functional recovery Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Aadya Bhatia is a 13-year-old competitive...

Aadya Bhatia is a 13-year-old competitive gymnast who has trained since she was 5. For over a year, she experienced increasingly severe pain and instability in her right knee, diagnosed as severe recurrent patellar dislocation. Despite months of physiotherapy and bracing, her kneecap would dislocate during routine floor exercises, causing falls and immense pain. Her pediatric orthopedic surgeon explained that the shape of her patella (knee cap) was severely misshapen (dysplastic) and was acting like a 'derailed train,' damaging the cartilage with each dislocation. The recommendation was a patellectomy, removing the kneecap, to eliminate the source of dislocation and pain, allowing her to regain stability, though it would end her high-impact gymnastics career. The surgery went smoothly. Her recovery involved immediate focus on regaining range of motion, followed by months of strengthening the quadriceps to compensate for the missing patella. A year later, Aadya is pain-free and stable. She can run, swim, and bike, but has transitioned to coaching younger gymnasts. Emotionally, it was a profound loss to give up her athletic identity, but she has found new purpose and relief from constant fear of dislocation.

Pediatric Orthopedics for Patellectomy

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform patellectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated