Patella tendon rupture neglected for 55 years

Abstract

Isolated rupture of the patella tendon is an infrequent injury that usually occurs in patients under 40 years of age. Most of these patients are seen for treatment immediately after injury and can undergo direct surgical repair with favorable results [1]. Surgical management of neglected patella tendon rupture is more difficult than that of acute ruptures, and the results are less favorable because of retraction, adhesion, atrophy of the quadriceps muscle and proximal patella migration [1?3]. Here, we report a case of patella tendon rupture neglected for 55 years, treated successfully using Achilles tendon allograft. Good functional results were achieved with intensive rehabilitation. The patient was asked if data relating to the case could be submitted for publication, and he consented.