Background and purpose: Reconstruction of ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using the middle-third of the patellar tendon has become an established procedure. However, current studies of donor site morbidity have reported discrepant results. This study used ultrasound imaging to evaluate morphologic changes in the patellar tendon after harvest for ACL reconstruction.
Methods: Twenty-nine patients who had undergone successful ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon graft more than 1 year previously were enrolled in the study. Ultrasound imaging was used to compare the width, thickness, and tissue reaction of patellar tendons between the operated and contralateral sides.
Results: The operated side was 4.8% wider on average than the contralateral side (p < 0.05). The operated side was also 58.3% thicker on average (p < 0.0001), with irregular margins and heterogenous echogenecity.
Conclusion: The donor site of the patellar tendon was significantly wider and thicker and was heterogenous when examined on sonogram more than 1 year postoperatively.