Simultaneous Rupture of the Patellar Tendon and the Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Report of Three Cases

This study describes three cases of simultaneous ruptures of the patellar tendon (PT) and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The treatment and the pathogenesis of this rare lesion are discussed. All three cases demonstrated lesions of all structures at the medial compartment. Unlike other reported cases, where an eccentric contraction of the quadriceps was present, the patients of the present study had sustained a forceful valgus injury with external rotation. We detected no displacements of the patella in any patients. All cases underwent a staged surgical procedure. Repair of the PT and of medial peripheral structures was performed immediately after injury; then, once the patients regained a full range of motion (ROM), they underwent an arthroscopic reconstruction of the ACL with ipsilateral hamstrings. At the follow-up stage, all cases showed a stable knee without restricted ROM.