Editorial Commentary: Increased Femoral Anteversion Correlates With Elevated Patellofemoral Contact Pressures.

Abstract

Internally rotating the femur increases pressures within the patellofemoral joint, particularly affecting the lateral facet of the cartilage. Although increased femoral anteversion is commonly associated with patellofemoral instability and elevated contact pressures, thresholds for surgical intervention remain elusive. Biomechanical studies have reinforced this association, yet methodologic compromises-particularly disruption of native soft-tissue structures-limit clinical applicability. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that individual variations in soft-tissue anatomy and quadriceps morphology influence susceptibility to lateral facet overload, even in the presence of "normal" skeletal alignment. These insights underscore the multifactorial nature of patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis and the need for refined models to better understand the true impact of femoral torsion. Until such data emerge, clinical decision making must remain cautious.