Reconstruction of the extensor mechanism with fresh-frozen tendon allograft in total knee arthroplasty
Llombart Blanco, R., Valentí, A., Díaz de Rada, P. et al.Knee
Purpose
Patellar tendon rupture after total knee replacement is a rare and highly limiting injury with multifactorial aetiology. Many reconstruction techniques have been described with not very predictable results. The use of allografts has been accepted as a suitable solution.
Methods
A series of seven patients with patellar tendon rupture treated with fresh-frozen tendon allograft reconstruction after knee arthroplasty is presented.
Results
Median follow-up is 25 months (20–31). Functional assessment improved, and the knee society score and knee functional score improved from 26 and 16 to 82 and 55, respectively. Median extension lag was 5° (0°–20°), with a median range of motion of 95° (70–100). Radiological study showed a rise of the patella of 22.26 mm.
Conclusion
The use of fresh-frozen allografts as a solution to patellar tendon ruptures after knee arthroplasty seems to provide acceptable results. Increased patellar height does not seem to affect functionality.
Level of evidence
Case series, Level IV.
Link to article