Patellar Tendon Reconstruction Using Semitendinosus Allograft With Suture Tape Augmentation for Recalcitrant Patellar Tendinosis

Abstract

Chronic patellar tendinosis is an overuse pathology affecting both adolescents and adults who participate in jumping sports. It often can be managed with nonoperative modalities. Chronic patellar tendinosis is associated with degenerative changes to the proximal, posterior patellar tendon. Operative treatments include open or arthroscopic debridement of the pathologic tissue. When a debridement is performed, the resulting defect forms a void at the posterior segment of the proximal patellar tendon. The authors assert this defect should be addressed in elite athletes with a graft as opposed to tendon debridement alone to prevent recurrence and maximize tendon strength. Described herein is the senior author’s preferred technique for open patellar tendon debridement and allograft reinforcement with suture tape augmentation for chronic patellar tendinosis. This technique creates both a tension band construct with allograft to offload the tendon proximally and an InternalBrace construct longitudinally for patellar tendon load sharing.