J Korean Knee Soc.  2000 Jun;12(1):128-132.

Reconstruction of Neglected Patellar Tendon Rupture with Achilles Tendon Allograft: A case report

• Kim HS
• Park SR
• Kang JS
• Lee WH
• Kim SH

Abstract

Neglected rupture of patellar tendon is an uncommon event. These rupture is often difficult to repair for structural and functional integrity of extensor mechanism because they generally accompanied quadriceps muscle contracture and a great deal of scar tissue formation. We report a case of neglected rupture of patellar tendon that was treated with achilles allograft. The patient who previously treated conservatively by long leg cast immobilization around the knee joint. He had an unstable knee. MRI showed a neglected rupture of patellar tendon, posterior cruciate 1igament and popliteus tendon. At first, patellar tendon was reconstructed using achilles allograft. Secondary operative procedure was necessary for combined pos-tero-lateral corner injuries. 3 years later, he had regained 130 degrees of flexion and full active extension. He had 3cm of thigh atrophy. He had returned to all of his usual activities without significant instability. There were several treatment methods of neglected rupture of patellar tendon. Achilles tendon allograft was one of them. We experienced this method is sufficient for regain usual extensor mechanism of the knee joint.

Keyword

Neglected patella tendon rupture; achilles allograft

MeSH Terms

Achilles Tendon*
Allografts*
Atrophy
Cicatrix
Contracture
Humans
Immobilization
Knee
Knee Joint
Leg
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Patellar Ligament*
Quadriceps Muscle
Rupture*
Surgical Procedures, Operative
Tendons
Thigh