quadriceps tendon rupture

{{short description|Tear of the tendon that runs from the quadriceps muscle to the top of the knee cap}}

{{More medical citations needed|date=December 2017}}

{{Infobox medical condition (new)

| name = Quadriceps tendon rupture

| synonyms = Quadriceps tendon tear

| image = Petellartendonrupture.png

| alt =

| caption = An x-ray demonstrating quadriceps tendon rupture. Note the abnormal angle of the patella and soft-tissue swelling marked by the arrow.

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| field = orthopedic

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A quadriceps tendon rupture is a tear of the tendon that runs from the quadriceps muscle to the top of the knee cap.{{Cite web|date=2017-07-19|title=Quadriceps Tendon Rupture: Practice Essentials, Anatomy, Pathophysiology|url=https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1249621-overview}}

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms are pain and the inability to extend the knee against resistance. A gap can often be palpated at the tendon's normal location.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is usually made clinically, but ultrasound or MRI can be used if there is any doubt.

Image:Quadriceps Ruptur Roe1.jpg|Quadriceps tendon rupture in plain X-ray

Image:Quadriceps Ruptur Roe2.jpg|Quadriceps tendon rupture in plain X-ray: Incomplete rupture with haematoma in tendon.

Image:Quadriceps Ruptur Roe3.jpg|Quadriceps tendon rupture in plain X-ray

Image:Patellarsehenruptur Quadrizepssehnenruptur Roe.jpg|X-ray of a tear of the patellar tendon. On the left: The kneecap is pulled up. On the right: Significant dent in the soft tissue above the kneecap.

Image:Quadrizepssehnenruptur.jpg|Operative image: 1. Kneecap 2. upper patella pole with drill holes 3. Stump of the quadriceps tendon

Treatment

The tendon can be surgically repaired. Afterwards a brace is given that prevents flexion of the knee. Athletes who have had this injury generally return to action in about 9 months to a year.{{cn|date=July 2022}}

References

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