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Spontaneous Bilateral Patellar Tendon Rupture in Patient with Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report

H. Franco, D. Fraser

Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports, 2024

3 citations

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Bilateral spontaneous patellar tendon ruptures are rare, though it is hypothesized to be more common in patients with risk factors such as connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS), systemic disorders weakening collagen structures, chronic stress around the patellar tendon, medications, and obesity or sedentary lifestyles. Clinicians should maintain a high degree of clinical suspicion for concerning features on clinical examination and radiological investigations to facilitate prompt diagnosis and operative management. This case report describes the first documented case of an adult patient with EDS who sustained bilateral spontaneous patellar tendon ruptures. There is one previously reported acute bilateral patellar tendon rupture occurring in a pediatric patient with EDS. Within the adult literature, two case reports have reported patients with EDS: One acute unilateral patellar tendon rupture who underwent operative management and one chronic patellar tendon tear requiring reconstruction 2.5 years following initial end-to-end repair. Case Report: A 45-year-old male sustained bilateral patellar tendon ruptures after falling onto his knees while pushing a heavy cart. The patient reported a giving-way sensation and was unable to mobilize independently. On presentation to the emergency department, the patient was noted to have an absent straight-leg raise and a palpable gap between the distal pole of the patella and patellar…

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