Patellar tendon repair restores extensor mechanism function with a low complication rate: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Patellar tendon ruptures severely impair knee extension and mobility.
• Prompt surgical intervention is critical for restoring function after patellar tendon rupture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review clinical and functional outcomes of primary, acute patellar tendon repair.
• To evaluate complications associated with different acute patellar tendon repair techniques.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies published after 2004, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for studies on acute patellar tendon repair techniques.
• Included prospective and retrospective studies reporting functional outcomes or complications.

Main Results:

• Nine studies involving 970 patients (93.8% male, mean age 32.1-44.6 years) were included.
• Mean knee flexion ranged from 128.5-143.3 degrees; extension deficit ranged from 0-6.4 degrees.
• Overall re-rupture rate was 3.9%, re-operation rate was 5.7%; other complications included VTE, stiffness, and infection.

Conclusions:

• Both transosseous and suture anchor techniques restore postoperative range of motion with low complication rates.
• Individualized surgical technique selection is recommended based on patient characteristics and surgeon preference.