Combining Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction With Patellar Tendon Repair Using Biocomposite Swivel Lock Anchors: Surgical Technique and Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Injuries to the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and patellar tendon in isolation are well-documented entities. There is a paucity of literature describing this combination of injuries and treatment of this concomitant injury pattern. Objective: The intent of this manuscript was to document the combined injury pattern of a concomitant MPFL rupture and patellar tendon disruption. We also aimed to describe a treatment option for this rarely documented injury pattern. Materials and Methods: Our MPFL reconstruction technique utilized a gracilis allograft and 2 biocomposite anchors for the patella. Our patellar tendon repair utilized Ethibond suture in a Krakow stitch fashion, which was subsequently incorporated into the anchors used for the MPFL reconstruction. Results: Our patient successfully transitioned through a specific postoperative range of motion protocol by increasing knee flexion 30 degrees every 2 weeks, beginning at 0 to 30 degrees at the first postoperative visit. Our patient was able to straight leg raise by 6 weeks, began formal physical therapy at 8 weeks, and resumed all normal activity at 6 months. Conclusion: We demonstrated a novel technique to repair a combined injury of the MPFL and patellar tendon that produced good clinical outcomes through 6 months.