Wayne B. Leadbetter, M.D.
 An Emphasis on Patellofemoral Arthritis

Isolated patellofemoral (kneecap) arthritis occurs in over 10 percent of patients with arthritic knee symptoms.  This painful condition can lead to lifelong activity restrictions whenever bent knee exercise is required such as stair climbing or fitness activities. 

It is a particularly common condition in women, often beginning at a young age.  Having a wife afflicted with this condition has motivated Dr. Leadbetter to lead efforts to improve treatment.  His interest has taken him to England where he studied the latest replacement techniques.  Dr. Leadbetter performed the first Avon patellofemoral arthroplasty in the United States in 2001.  He is now one of the more experienced surgeons in the country with this procedure.  Not satisfied with only one solution, Dr. Leadbetter has organized and edited the proceedings of a world consensus symposium on all aspects of patellofemoral, arthritis and pain.  He has a continuing research focus on this problem.