Neglected patellar tendon ruptures—a simple modified reconstruction using hamstrings tendon graft

Abstract

We hereby describe a cost effective and simple anatomical reconstruction without requirement for allograft or implants for neglected chronic patellar tendon injuries. This has been validated in seven patients with an average follow up of greater than three years resulting in good outcome. Seven patients (six males, one female) of mean age 41.8 years (range up to 57 years) presented with neglected patellar tendon injury. The time since injury ranged between three months and three years (average nine months). Active extension was not possible in three patients, and four patients had an extensor lag between 40° and 80° (average 62.5°). Four patients had quadriceps strength of grade 2/5 and three patients had grade 3/5. All patients had severe functional limitation with an average IKDC score of 46.8 (range 39-57). They all underwent patellar tendon reconstruction using hamstrings tendon autograft. Postoperatively with a mean follow up of 40.7 months (range 31-52 months), all patients had a stable knee with mean flexion of 125° (range 120°-130°) and without any extension lag. Quadriceps power was regained in five cases to 5/5 and in two cases to 4/5. With an improvement in the IKDC score to 86.8 (range 80-92), excellent outcome was noted in five patients and good outcome in two patients. The average postoperative Lysholm score was 92.4 (range 89-95) and the average Kujala score was 94.5 (range 92-97). Patellar tendon reconstruction using hamstrings autograft for neglected patellar tendon injuries provides good stability and excellent outcome. Compared to previous techniques described, our technique is unique in being cost effective and a simple anatomical reconstruction without the requirement for allograft or implants.