Severed Patellar Tendon

[Tridad]

While cycling I was struck by a large pickup truck.  My patellar tendon and ACl were completely severed jiust below the kneecap by the truck's headlight. I came within an inch of completely losing my leg.  After two surgeries in two days, I'm in a Zimmer splint for weeks before Physical therapy will begin. I am a 55 and last month completed my second Ironman.   When would it be realistic to have my ACL repaired?  Do I have to wait until my patellar tendon heals before my ACL gets reattached?

[gmakreese]

My husband is a logger and severed his patellar tendon, as well as it went to the soft bone.  He thinks he can get out and do things already, knowing his instructions from his orthopedic surgeon, therapist and prosthetic clinic.  Could someone send a message that I could just maybe get him to listen to.

[Tridad]

Thank you.  My orthopaedic surgeon ordered an MRI to access the ACL.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The ACL reconstruction could have been done at the first surgery itself, though it may or may not have been required. For an interval reconstruction, it would be advised to wait for a few weeks, to assess the knee stability before taking a decision. It would be  best to discuss the situation, the expected prognosis and the management plan in detail with your treating orthopedician.
Hope this helps.

Take care!