Image-guided intervention in the management of chronic patellar tendinopathy with calcification: a three-pronged approach

Abstract

Patellar tendinopathy is a common cause of knee pain and functional impairment in athletes. It is commonly managed using conservative measures such as physiotherapy, but cases that are refractory to such treatment may require a more invasive approach. Various forms of image-guided injection therapy have been described in the literature. We present a case of successful treatment of chronic patellar tendinopathy with calcification with the first reported use of a three-pronged image-guided approach, consisting of dry needling, high volume image-guided injection (but at a reduced dose) and barbotage applied in a single sitting. The patient reported resolution of symptoms persisting to 1 year postprocedure. We suggest that this management option, if supported by further positive research findings, could be used in the future in the management of certain cases of patellar tendinopathy with calcification where conservative measures have failed.