Torn Patella? We Got You
Don’t ignore that sharp, severe pain at the front of the knee. Along with swelling, instability, difficulty walking, and an inability to straighten the knee, this can be a sign of a torn patellar tendon. The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shin bone and is responsible for straightening the knee, making this tendon behave like a ligament. A torn patellar tendon occurs when the tissue is damaged, either wholly or partially. While there are non-surgical treatment options, an orthopedic surgeon or other specialist is often required to perform patellar tendon repair. This surgery is just part of a complex process designed to help patients return to full movement as soon as possible.
Get a grasp on patellar tendon repair
Most patella tendon tears occur in sports, collisions, or car accidents. Patellar tendon repair is recommended for full-thickness tears or if the knee fails to respond to non-surgical treatment. Thanks to minimally invasive surgery (MIS), patellar tendon repair can be performed in an outpatient setting. The surgeon makes small incisions at the front of the knee. A scope is used to provide a full view of the damaged ligament. Surgical tools clean the frayed tissue, and then some of the damaged patellar tendon is removed. Stitches are placed on the remaining part of the tissue, and holes are drilled through the kneecap. The surgeon then reconnects the torn ligament through these holes. Once the ligament looks secure, the incisions are closed, and the surgery is completed.
What happens during recovery?
Most patients who require patellar tendon repair will regain full range of motion (ROM) and strength. However, the entire recovery process is extensive, combining physical therapy (PT) and other recovery techniques. On average, a full recovery from patellar tendon repair can take 4-6 months. However, athletes may need up to 12 months to return to full fitness. Although the procedure is in an outpatient setting, PT does not begin immediately. The patient will need to focus on protecting the knee and pain management. The surgeon will place the knee in a hinged brace to minimize movement and prevent stiffness. During this time, the patient will focus on pain management, elevating the leg, and wound care. Early, gentle isometric exercises will maintain blood flow and prevent muscle wasting.
Time for therapy
At the 2-week mark, the complete therapy regimen begins. The patient will work with a physiotherapist to gradually restore range of motion (ROM), strength, and flexibility. The brace will be slightly unlocked at different stages of therapy. From weeks 2-6, patients can expect gradual mobilization and strengthening exercises that are quadriceps-focused. During this time, the patient may also progress from the knee brace to crutches. Therapy continues from weeks 6-12, increasing in intensity and complexity. The patient will eventually include exercises that require the full extension of the knee. At the 12-week mark, the patient should be able to walk unassisted. Rehabilitation continues for 3-6 months, with a focus on returning to everyday activities while building strength and mobility.
Exploring different rehabilitation solutions
Recovery is not limited to mobility and strengthening exercises. The physical therapist will use different tools and strategies to improve healing, reduce inflammation, and increase flexibility. Some will recommend regenerative medicine, a process that uses the body’s healing properties to accelerate healing in other areas. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a typical example. Multiple PRP injections over the recovery timeframe provide enough platelet-rich plasma to help with healing. Other modalities include ultrasound therapy, taping the knee, and using hydrotherapy. Water-based recovery, in particular, can relieve forces, leading to less pain and faster healing. These options are only complementary to a comprehensive physical therapy plan.
Get your bounce back with patellar tendon repair
A torn patellar tendon can be painful yet challenging to overcome. Surgery for full-thickness tears is almost always a requirement, especially if the patient is an athlete and wants to return to activity. With a minimally invasive procedure, there is less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications. Despite the benefits, rehabilitation can still take several months. Combining the tools at the doctor’s disposal with effective PT can restore the knee’s bounce, strength, and flexibility.
