Patellar tendon repair is an operation to reattach the ruptured patellar tendon — the strong tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Rupture prevents the ability to straighten the knee against gravity.
An incision is made over the front of the knee. The torn tendon ends are identified and stitched together using strong sutures. Suture anchors or tunnels through the kneecap may be used to reinforce the repair. A protective wire or suture may be placed around the kneecap to protect the repair during healing. The operation takes one to one and a half hours.
Surgery is essential for complete patellar tendon ruptures, as the tendon cannot heal on its own and the patient cannot straighten the knee against gravity without it.
Partial tears may be managed with bracing and physiotherapy. Complete ruptures require surgical repair.
Surgery is ideally performed within two weeks of the injury, before the tendon retracts and scarring makes repair more difficult.
Restoration of the ability to straighten the knee and return to normal function. Most patients achieve good functional outcomes with dedicated rehabilitation, though some loss of knee flexion is common.
Loss of knee flexion is common and requires dedicated physiotherapy.
Some residual weakness compared to the uninjured side.
Expected for several weeks.
The repair may fail, particularly with premature loading. Risk approximately 5%.
Wound infection.
The kneecap may sit lower than normal after healing, affecting knee mechanics.
DVT despite preventive measures.
General or spinal anaesthesia.
A hinged brace is worn for six to twelve weeks with gradually increasing flexion. Weight-bearing begins immediately in the brace with the knee locked in extension. Physiotherapy is essential. Jogging at four to six months. Return to sport at six to nine months. Full recovery takes nine to twelve months.
Regular reviews at two weeks, six weeks, three months, and six months.
Patellar tendon ruptures typically occur during forceful knee bending, such as landing from a jump. They are more common in patients with pre-existing tendon disease (tendinopathy) and in those who have had corticosteroid injections into the tendon.
Most patients return to sport, though it takes nine to twelve months of dedicated rehabilitation.