Multifocal Disruption of the Extensor Mechanism of the Knee: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT

CASE A 41-year-old man presented with a transverse patella fracture and proximal patellar tendon avulsion after a fall from standing. Disruption of the extensor mechanism of the knee at multiple points is rare. He was treated operatively for his patella fracture and patellar tendon avulsion but experienced early failure of the patellar tendon fixation requiring reoperation. Both components of injury ultimately healed, and he returned to function. CONCLUSION: This case describes a rare presentation of an uncommon injury pattern affecting the extensor mechanism. This is the first report to describe multifocal failure of the extensor chain from a low-energy mechanism.