Knee · Tendons, fractures & replacement
Patellar tendon repair
Patellar Tendon Tear
The condition
The patellar tendon connects the bottom of the kneecap to the shin bone and, with the thigh muscles, lets you straighten the knee. It usually tears from a sudden forceful load, such as landing from a jump. A complete tear makes it hard to straighten the knee or walk and needs prompt repair.
The surgery
This is a typically outpatient surgery done through an incision at the front of the knee. The tendon is reattached to the kneecap with strong sutures through small bone tunnels and/or anchors, often with added reinforcement. Older tears may need a cadaver tendon graft. The final plan is determined during surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Brace & weight
- Full weight right away with crutches and the brace locked straight; it stays locked for walking for 6 weeks (8 for older or reinforced repairs).
- Motion
- Generally allow bending to 45° for 4 weeks, then ~15° more per week to 90° by 6 weeks; full by 12 weeks. This is subject to variation based on the repair. No active straightening out of the brace for 6 weeks.
- Daily life
- Desk work often within 2 weeks; brace and crutches are weaned by ~8 weeks. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Running
- Typically at ~5 months, once strength allows.
- Activity
- Full release typically 6–9 months (4–6 months for less demanding activity).
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients regain the ability to straighten the knee and return to daily activities. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, re-tear of the tendon, weakness straightening the knee, a change in kneecap height, injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
Open, save or print. Bring your questions to your pre-op visit.
Before & after every surgery