Bilateral patellar tendon reconstruction using LARS ligaments: case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Acute bilateral patellar tendon rupture is a rare occurrence, with only 1 case reported in the English literature of a young, fit athlete with no regular medications. To our knowledge this is the first such case reported using a LARS reconstruction. CASE PRESENTATION: A 26-year-old otherwise well ex-olympic gymnast with bilateral acute on chronic patellar tendon rupture underwent reconstruction using LARS ligaments. At four years post-operatively he has maintained full range of motion and strength, without re-rupture or any evidence of synovitis. CONCLUSION: The use of LARS ligament for reconstruction of the patellar tendon is a viable and effective option for rupture. It avoids donor site morbidity associated with autograft. Reconstruction of both patellar tendons simultaneously in a young, elite-level athlete has not previously been reported in the English-language literature.