Patella Tendon Shortening (PTS)
Disclaimer: This fact sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.
The patella tendon starts from the knee cap and goes into the top of the shin. The Patella tendon can be over stretched and too long after walking in a crouched (bent knees) position for a long period of time. When this occurs, the quadriceps (thigh muscles) lose the ability to straighten the knee/ leg completely.
Definition:
The patella (knee-cap) tendon is cut then overlapped and sewn together to shorten it. The bold dotted line in the diagram below represents where the patella tendon is cut.
Weight Bearing:
6 weeks of non weight bearing unless otherwise instructed by your orthopaedic surgeon.
Plasters:
A long leg cast is applied to keep the leg straight. The cast will extend from the top of the thigh to include the foot as well. This will keep the legs straight while healing occurs and will need to be worn for 6 weeks.
Orthosis/Brace:
- 3 point knee splints are orthoses used to ensure straight knees. It extends from the top of the thigh right down to the ankle joint. These are worn for a minimum of 3 months after plasters are removed.
- Solid ankle foot orthoses will also be required. Your surgeon will decide how long your child will need to wear them.
Special Instructions:
Knees are to be kept straight for as long as possible after the surgery to protect the procedure and avoid walking in crouch again.
Equipment:
Your child will need a wheelchair and perhaps a hoist and a commode to help with toileting. Speak to an Occupational Therapist for further advice and recommendations regarding equipment. A leg board will also need to be fitted into a wheelchair to accommodate for the long leg plaster casts and then the orthoses.
© The Children's Hospital at Westmead - 1997-2010
This document was published on Thursday, 11 February 2010.
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