Socioeconomic Factors and Surgical Outcomes Among Acute and Chronic Patellar Tendon Repairs: A Single-Surgeon Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist on factors contributing to delayed repair of patellar tendon ruptures. This study describes the experience of a single surgeon managing acute and chronic patellar tendon tears, focusing on patient demographics, socioeconomic characteristics, and short-term surgical outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patellar tendon repairs performed at a single institution from January 2017 to January 2024. Patients were stratified into acute or chronic groups based on whether surgery occurred within 6 weeks of injury. Socioeconomic background was assessed using the area deprivation index, reported as national percentiles (1% to 100%) and state-normed deciles (1 to 10), with higher rankings indicating greater disadvantage. Mann-Whitney U and chi square tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 70 patients included, 45 underwent acute and 25 chronic repairs. Groups did not differ significantly in age, body mass index, race/ethnicity, comorbidities, insurance status, or area deprivation index scores. Surgical complications, infection, revision surgery rates, and postoperative range of motion scores were not statistically different. Functional outcomes such as strength and return to work were not measured.

DISCUSSION: Within our predominantly minority, single-surgeon cohort, our analysis of socioeconomic characteristics revealed an average to moderate level of disadvantage with no notable demographic differences between the two groups. In addition, when appropriately managed, we found no statistically significant differences in surgical complications and postoperative range of motion values. These results reflect a specific practice setting and population. Broader studies incorporating functional outcomes and more diverse populations are needed to better understand delayed presentations and optimize care.