Patellar Tendinitis Surgery
Overview of Patellar Tendinitis
- Patellar tendinopathy causes activity-related anterior knee pain and affects both athletes and non-athletes, commonly resulting from repetitive loading of the patellar tendon, particularly in jumping athletes 2
- Pain is typically located at the inferior pole of the patella and is exacerbated by activities such as navigating stairs and prolonged sitting 2
- Physical examination reveals pain at the inferior pole of the patella with the leg fully extended during resisted leg extension 2
- A decline squat test places increased load on the patellar tendon and often reproduces the patient's pain 2
Surgical Indications
- Patellar tendinitis surgery is an effective treatment option that should be reserved for patients who have failed conservative therapy for 3-6 months 1
- Surgery becomes an option when conservative treatment has failed after 3-6 months 1
- Patient continues to experience significant pain affecting quality of life 1
- Patient is unable to return to desired activity level despite appropriate non-surgical management 1
Non-Surgical Management Before Considering Surgery
- Relative rest and reduced activity to prevent further damage 1
- Eccentric strengthening exercises to reduce symptoms and promote tendon healing 2
- Deep transverse friction massage for pain reduction 2
- Cryotherapy for acute pain relief 1
- Short-term use of NSAIDs for pain management (though they don't affect long-term outcomes) 1