Osgood-Schlatter's disease complicating anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Osgood-Schlatter's disease (OSD) is generally felt to be a benign self-limited disorder. In a small number of patients a symptomatic free bone ossicle persists at the tibial insertion of the patellar tendon. We report the case of a collegiate soccer player with a history of OSD who sustained an acute rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The presence of a free bone ossicle in his patellar tendon necessitated modification of our routine approach to ACL reconstruction. Awareness of the potential for patellar tendon graft problems in patients with previous OSD will allow surgeons to plan alternative reconstructive techniques based on the specific needs of the patient.