Reinforcement of chronic patellar tendon repair with high strength polyester sutures

Abstract

Objective To summarize the clinical features of chronic ruptured patellar tendon, and introduce the augmentation technique of repair of chronic ruptured patellar tendon with high strength polyester sutures and postoperative rehabilitation.Methods Six cases of chronic patellar tendon rupture were treated and reinforced with high strength polyester sutures from 2002 to 2007.Patellar tendon ruptures was primary end Ho -end repaired, and reinforced with 4 polyester sutures that were passed through in-traosseous tunnels within the patella and tibial tubercle.The surgery reestablished knee extensor continuity and restored the length of patellar tendon.Augmentation techniques were reliable, and allowed patients to walk and bend the knee, regain adequate quadriceps strength early.Postoperative rehabilitation: on the 1st day after surgery, walking upright and passive flexion of 90° was allowed, and brace protection was unnecessary; 3 weeks later, straight leg raise; 6 weeks later, brisk walking; 12 weeks later, squatting and climbing stairs; 6 months later, sports was allowed, including the jump and kick.Results All patients were followed up from 1 to 5 years.No patient sustained a re-rupture.All patients satisfied with their result.The Lysholm score were 100.Kach knee had restored full range of motion 6 months later, and regained adequate quadriceps strength.Conclusion Augmentation techniques with high strength polyester sutures is reliable and demonstrate good intermediate to long-term results.It can avoid re-operation for removal of the cerclage wire, allow patients to walk and bend the knee, regain adequate quadriceps strength early. Key words: Knee joint; Patellar ligament; Rupture