Purpose

To determine the ultimate tensile strength of the prepatellar quadriceps continuation (PQC).

Methods

A human cadaveric study was performed. Ten fresh-frozen specimens were used. The proximal and medial third of the anterior cortex of the patella was used to assess the mechanical properties of the PQC. In each specimen, a transverse section area of 0.2cm2 (A1) and 1cm2 (A2) were studied. A gradual load was applied to measure the deformation from which the stress and strain were determined using a stress-strain device was used. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was recorded.

Results

The median UTS of A1 was 232.56N (141.23N to 295.33N), and the median UTS of A2 was 335.30N (216.45N to 371.40N). The increment in UTS was significant between the two areas (p=0.006).

Conclusion

The Clinical Significance of this study is that it shows that the PQC is a strong tissue that can be a safe anchor for reconstruction around the patella. A relatively small area supports at least 140 newtons, and as the area grows, the UTS increases as well.