The patella tendon is vital for proper knee function. It connects the kneecap to the tibia, allowing the quadriceps to extend or straighten the leg. The patella tendons are put under extreme strain when jumping. Patellar tendonitis, or jumper’s knee, can occur when the patella is damaged from overuse. If the patella tendon becomes weak or over-stressed, it can tear and disable the knee function. At Robotic Joint Center, we offer patella tendon tear surgery at our medical center in NYC.

Causes and Symptoms of Patella Tendon Ruptures

Most patella tendon ruptures or tears are partial, with only some of the fibers tearing. In partial patella tendon tears, the knee can still straighten, but it can be painful and weak. With a complete patella tear, the kneecap is no longer attached to the tibia. This can occur when landing from a jump or in a severe fall that injures the front of the knee. Symptoms of a complete patella tendon tear include:

• Popping or tearing sensation at time of injury
• Bruising and swelling below the knee
• An indentation under the knee
• Kneecap shifts to the lower thigh
• Inability to straighten the knee
• Pain, tenderness and cramping below the knee

A complete patella tendon tear is a disabling injury. Without connection to the tibia, the knee cannot straighten. Surgery is required to repair a completely torn patella tendon.

Dr. Fredrick Buechel, Jr., is an internationally-renowned knee specialist and surgeon who can perform patella tendon tear surgery. Dr. Buechel uses knee arthroscopy to access the torn patella tendon to reattach it to the kneecap. Surgery is followed by rehabilitation and physical therapy to restore strength and function to the knee and tendon.

If you suffer a complete patella tendon tear or rupture, surgery is available to repair your knee injury at Robotic Joint Center. Contact us at our clinic in New York City’s UES to schedule a consultation with Dr. Buechel to discuss patella tendon tear surgery or treatment.