Reconstruction of chronic rupture of the extensor mechanism after patellectomy.

Chronic extensor mechanism ruptures are uncommon but challenging clinical problems. Previously published procedures for treating chronic extensor mechanism ruptures assume an intact patella is available to anchor the repair. A case is presented of a patient who had a previous patellectomy, followed by rupture of the extensor mechanism. After two failed attempts at repair, an Achilles tendon allograft was used successfully to restore function of the extensor mechanism. The described technique offers an alternative for reconstruction of the extensor mechanism after patellectomy.