[VY-plasty for chronic quadriceps tendon rupture]

Lengthening of the quadriceps tendon for dehiscence in chronic rupture.

Chronic rupture of the quadriceps tendon with delayed diagnosis or failure of primary refixation with a dehiscence between 1 and 5 cm.

Dehiscence of more than 5 cm.

Reopen the old incision and lengthen it to about 20-25 cm if necessary. Visualize the rupture. Debridement of the tendon and the insertion. Measurement of the dehiscence. Creation of a V-flap and reinforcement with a holding seam. Gradual mobilization of the V‑flap distally and reinforcement with two strong suture cords (braided suture size 5). Drilling of three obliquely ascending drill holes through the patella. Transosseous threading of the two reinforcement cords through the three drill holes. Knotting the reinforcement cords on the patella. Closure of the gap between the patella and the superficial tendon leaflet with a #2 braided suture. Closure of the gap between the V‑flap and the quadriceps tendon.

Six weeks of partial weight-bearing with 20 kg in a straight orthosis. Mobility: weeks 1-4 E/F 0-0-60, weeks 5 and 6 E/F 0-0-90.

We were able to follow-up 8 patients (mean age: 63.1 ± 4.5 years), who underwent this surgery in the manner described. All patients were able to perform an active extension postoperatively. The Lysholm score increased from 46.4 (± 5.4) points preoperatively to 81.6 (± 6.5) points postoperatively. No further rupture was detectable in the ultrasound examination at latest follow-up after an average of 27 (18-36) months.