Bilateral patellar tendon rupture.

A 58-year -old man with a past history of acquired emphysema was admitted after his legs 'gave way' as he walked down a short flight of steps. He was unable to extend either knee actively. Bilateral patellar tendon ruptures were diagnosed clinically from the history, and the finding of swelling and a palpable gap below the lower pole of each patella. The diagnosis was confirmed radiologically (Figure). There was no history of systemic illness and the patient had never received steroids. His physique was not suggestive of a hereditary collagen disorder and there was no history of tendon swelling or rupture at any other site. The ESR was moderatelv elevated. 75mm/hr. but Figure. Lateral X -ray views of bilateral patellar tendon rupture. The high. riding patella, with the distance from the lower pole of the patella to the tibial tuberosity greater than the length of the patella is diagnostic.