Preservation vs. resection of the infrapatellar fat pad during total knee arthroplasty Part I: A survey of current practice in the UK

Background: The management of the infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the subject of ongoing debate. In part 1 of this two-part series, we present an overview of current practice regarding the management of the IPFP in elective TKA among surgeons in the UK.

Methods: A web-based survey was offered to 269 delegates of the BASK 2017 annual conference.

Results: The survey showed a large variation in practice. Of the 173 responders, 86.7% were consultants; 62.4% partially resected the IPFP; 23.1% totally resected the IPFP, and 9.8% preserved it. Forty percent felt that resection made a difference. Only 23% stated that they were aware of guidelines/evidence.

Conclusion: There is wide variation in practice with regard to the IPFP in TKA. The available literature with regard to resection or preservation of the IPFP is not conclusive.

Implications: There are no definitive guidelines available for the management of the IPFP in TKA resulting in a wide variation in practice amongst surgeons.