Does tendon repair surgery treat patellar tendon rupture?

The patellar tendon links the kneecap to the shinbone and helps the quadriceps straighten the knee. A rupture may cause sudden pain, swelling, a gap below the kneecap, and difficulty lifting the straight leg or walking normally.

Repair brings the torn tendon back to its attachment and may use strong sutures or supporting fixation. The exact approach depends on the tear’s location, tissue quality, delay before treatment, and other knee injuries. A brace and staged rehabilitation are needed afterward because the tendon must be protected while knee movement is gradually restored.

Arrange an orthopaedic review promptly after a sudden knee injury or loss of straight-leg control. Keep the knee supported in a comfortable extended position, avoid walking without support if it gives way, and use crutches only as instructed. Do not force the knee to bend.

Assessment may include an examination and imaging. Before treatment, ask how long the brace will be required, how weight bearing will progress, and which exercises protect the repair while preventing excessive stiffness.

Seek urgent care if the knee injury is open, the leg becomes cold or pale, sensation changes, swelling rapidly expands, or pain is severe and uncontrolled. Prompt review is also needed if the knee repeatedly gives way or you suddenly lose the ability to lift the leg straight.

Ask whether the rupture is complete, where it is located, and whether the kneecap has shifted. Discuss brace settings, safe transfers and stairs, bathing, driving, work duties, physiotherapy timing, and symptoms that should trigger an earlier review.