Patellofemoral Joint Auto-fusion after Patella Tendon Repair: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: Post-traumatic patellofemoral auto fusion is poorly described in the literature and its etiology may be multifactorial. Management options are not well published and this case report addresses a rare and complex case of patellofemoral autofusion after a patellar tendon repair with a description of our surgical approach and ultimately improvement in patient outcome and satisfaction. CASE PRESENTATION: A 59-year-old African American female suffered an acute traumatic patellar tendon rupture that was treated with a primary repair that resulted in sequelae leading to a subsequent open procedure revealing an osseous bridge between the patella and trochlea. After osteotomy of this bridge, the patient’s range of motion improved. CONCLUSION: For the appropriate management of arthrofibrosis surgeons should focus on modifiable risk factors including close follow-up with patients, patient expectation management, and consider surgical intervention such as techniques described below in recalcitrant cases to evaluate for post-traumatic sequelae including bone bridge formation.