The third compartment of the knee: an update from diagnosis to treatment

Abstract

• The anterior part (third space) of the knee appears important in the soft tissue functional outcome following knee replacement surgery. • Native patellofemoral kinematics are complex and variable, and further understanding has led to prosthetic redesign. • Attention to soft tissue tension anteriorly (balancing the third space) during knee replacement may maximise post-operative function and avoid issues with understuffing and overstuffing. • Patellofemoral compression forces may now be measured dynamically during knee replacement, allowing an objective approach to balancing the third space