Outcomes after knee joint extensor mechanism disruptions: is it better to fracture the patella or rupture the tendon?

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome after the operative treatment of patella fractures (PFs) as compared with those of quadriceps tendon and patella tendon (PT) ruptures. Design: This pertains to a retrospective case control. Setting: The setting was in academic teaching hospitals. Patients: Ninety-four patients with 99 extensor mechanism disruptions were treated operatively. Of these, 50 (50%) were PFs; 36 (37%) were quadriceps ruptures; and 13 (13%) were PT ruptures. Main Outcome Measures: The patients were evaluated at 6 and 12 months and were tested for range of motion, quadriceps circumference and strength, SF36, Lysholm, and Tegner outcome scores by independent observers. Radiographs of the knee were obtained to assess bony healing, posttraumatic arthritis, and heterotopic ossification Results: A minimum of 12-month follow-up (range 12–81 months) was available for 76 patients (77%). PFs were seen more commonly in women (P Conclusions: There were no significant differences with regard to outcome in patients sustaining these injuries. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.