Patellar Tendon Open Debridement and Reconstruction With Hamstring Tendon Autograft for Severe Patellar Tendinopathy

Patellar tendinopathy is an overuse injury of the patella tendon common in jumping sports or activities. Degeneration of the patellar tendon fibers causes microtears in the tendon, leading to partial patellar tendon tears. If nonoperative treatment fails and the tears are mild, a debridement of the detached tissue with a patella tendon repair can help to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve function. However, if more than 50% of the patella tendon attachment to the inferior pole of the patella is detached, a debridement with a patellar tendon reconstruction is indicated to restore the strength of the patellar tendon. This reconstruction technique uses gracilis and semitendinosus autografts to surround and reconstruct the patellar tendon. Tunnels are drilled horizontally at the tibial tubercle and through the midpoint of the patella for graft passage. This technique can help to improve patient outcomes and reduce some of the risk of failure associated with performing only the debridement when significant partial patellar tendon tearing is present.