Indications
The patella tendon runs from the patella (kneecap) to the tibia (lower leg bone) to provide the distal (end) attachment of the quadriceps muscle to the tibia (lower leg bone). The patellar tendon is stressed with repetitive explosive movements, such as sprinting and jumping. Overtime, the tendon degenerates or becomes edematous (swollen) in reaction to the repetitive forces. This condition is known as patellar tendinosis. Symptoms from patellar tendinosis typically can resolve with conservative treatment such as medication and ice to relieve the pain, stretching and eccentric strengthening exercises to encourage tendon remodeling and temporary avoidance of aggravating activities. If the patient fails all conservative treatment, surgery is indicated to debride (remove) degenerated tendon tissue, stimulate a healing response, and repair any grossly torn tendon.
Contraindications
- Inability or unwillingness to complete the postoperative program or to perform the rehabilitation necessary
- Infection of the knee (current or previous; not an absolute contraindication)
- Has not attempted proper conservative treatment