What are the risks of knee tendon repair surgery?

Stiffness

The knee is usually protected in a brace after repair, and bending is increased step by step. Some patients find it hard to regain full bend, which can affect kneeling, prayer and floor sitting. Following the physiotherapy programme closely, and reporting early if progress stalls, gives you a good chance of avoiding long-term stiffness.

Weakness and a feeling of instability

The quadriceps muscle weakens quickly after injury and surgery. Many people have some lasting difference in strength compared with the other leg, especially for stairs, squatting or sport. Consistent strengthening over many months matters a great deal.

Re-rupture

A repaired tendon can tear again, usually from a fall or from loading the knee too early. The risk is higher in the first months while the tendon is still healing, and in people with conditions that weaken tendons. Wearing the brace as advised and building load gradually are the main protections.

Other risks

• Wound healing problems, more likely with diabetes, smoking or kidney disease
• Infection, which is uncommon but may need antibiotics or further surgery
• Blood clots in the leg, which is why clot prevention is often given
• Irritation from stitches or anchors used in the repair
• Numbness of a patch of skin near the scar
• Changes in kneecap height, which can affect how the knee feels

Reducing your risk

Before surgery, good blood sugar control, stopping smoking and a review of medicines help. After surgery, keep the wound dry and clean, attend follow-ups, and seek urgent care for fever, increasing redness, discharge, calf pain or breathlessness. At Aman Hospital, Dr. Gelber discusses your individual risks before agreeing the plan.