Semitendinosus autograft augmentation after bilateral patellar tendon re-rupture: a case report and technique note.

Abstract

Acute bilateral patellar tendon rupture is a rare occurrence, especially in young patients in the absence of comorbidities. We describe a case of bilateral patellar tendon re-rupture in a young patient without predisposing factors. Further, we explain a technique for autograft augmented patellar tendon repair with bidirectional fixation using an ipsilateral semitendinosus graft in transosseous patellar and tibia bone tunnels. We present the case of a 40-year-old healthy worker with bilateral acute on chronic patellar tendon rupture maintained following initial trauma and Krackow repair 2 years ago. He underwent bilateral reconstruction using semitendinosus autograft. At 1 year postoperatively, he has maintained the full range of motion and strength without re-rupture. This is the first case describing a new fixation technique after bilateral patellar tendon re-rupture. The use of semitendinosus autograft for reconstruction of the patellar tendon after re-rupture is a viable and effective option.