• BACKGROUND
    • Isolated rupture of the patellar tendon is a rare injury. Often occurring during a fall in 20- and 30-year olds, patients may have a preexisting medical condition (eg, history of steroid use) or a history of repetitive microtrauma to the knee. A high-riding patella on physical examination and radiographs is pathognomonic.
  • METHODS
    • Immediate orthopaedic referral for surgical repair is necessary to reestablish knee extension. Delay in diagnosis can make surgical treatment more difficult. Current methods of postoperative rehabilitation are evolving.
  • RESULTS
    • Evaluative studies based on rating scales show satisfactory clinical and functional results after surgery. However, time lost from work and recreation may be protracted, and quadriceps atrophy is often evident.
  • CONCLUSIONS
    • Ruptures of the patellar tendon should be diagnosed acutely and immediately referred to an orthopaedic surgeon. The impact of the injury to the patient may be long-standing even after operative treatment. Contemporary surgical and rehabilitative techniques give the best opportunity for restoration of functional activity.