Isolated rupture of the popliteus muscle with painful ossification in a skeletally immature athlete--a case report.

A case of an isolated popliteus tendon rupture occurring during sport in a skeletally immature athlete is presented. Treatment is not always clearly defined, as both nonoperative and operative have been successful. Because the outcome of rest from sports activity and failed trials of physical therapy allowed continued discomfort in the posterolateral aspect of the knee in this patient, repeat imaging and arthroscopy were performed. Part of the popliteus tendon was demonstrated to have ossified and was openly debrided. The remaining tendon was repaired to the lateral capsule. The patient went on to a full recovery and return to sport.