Simultaneous rupture of the patellar tendons bilaterally: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Rupture of the patellar tendon is uncommon. In most cases the rupture occurs at the inferior border of the patella rather than through the midsubstance of the tendon. Bilateral ruptures are particularly rare and may occur sequentially or, as in the case reported here, simultaneously. Surgical repair is necessary to re-establish the extensor mechanism and produces good results.