Table 2.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Arthroscopic Management of Bipartite Patella

Advantages	Disadvantages
Fewer complications including effusion drainage and wound dehiscence with lower infection risk	Risk of missing small fragments of bipartite patella compared with open procedure
Can perform chondroplasty and easily visualize undersurface of patella	Much longer tourniquet time than open excision
Better preservation of lateral retinacular tissue; reduced risk of iatrogenic medial dislocation or maltracking	Technically may be more challenging in cases of malunion fragments with severely sclerotic bone or significant scar tissue
Faster return of quadriceps strength and return to play with aggressive rehabilitation	May be more difficult to view interface of bipartite patella posteriorly—a 70° scope may occasionally be needed