Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
A quadriceps tendon rupture occurs when the tendon tears partially or completely. The quadriceps tendon is a strong tendon that connects the quadriceps muscle to the patella. It is responsible for knee extension and, therefore, if it does not function properly, the patient cannot walk or straighten the knee. A complete quadriceps tendon rupture is a serious injury that requires immediate treatment with surgical repair.
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Causes
Sports activities involving jumping or sudden, powerful knee movements – such as sprinting, basketball, and volleyball.
A fall or direct blow to the knee.
Chronic tendinitis.
Certain systemic conditions make the tendon more prone to tears. Such conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, and kidney failure.
Medications such as corticosteroids and certain antibiotics weaken the tendon, making it easier to rupture.
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Symptoms
Symptoms of a quadriceps tendon rupture include:
Sudden and severe knee pain
Swelling and bruising around the knee joint
Difficulty walking
A sensation that something tore during the injury
Inability to straighten the knee
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Diagnosis
A patient with a quadriceps tendon rupture requires immediate assessment by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. Dr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history and examine you. During the clinical examination, a palpable gap is present and the patella has moved downward.
The doctor will perform an ultrasound scan and will discuss the recommended treatment approach with you. Occasionally, further investigations such as plain X-rays or an MRI scan may be required to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity.
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Treatment
A quadriceps tendon rupture is almost always complete – total. Partial tears are rare and can be treated conservatively with a specialised knee brace, crutches, and physiotherapy. Treatment for a complete quadriceps tendon rupture usually involves surgery, followed by personalised rehabilitation to restore strength and range of motion of the knee.
Surgical Repair
Surgical treatment for a quadriceps tendon rupture involves reattaching the torn tendon to the patella. This is usually performed through a small incision in the knee, using sutures or anchors to secure the tendon in its correct position.
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Postoperative Rehabilitation
After surgery, the knee will be immobilised in a functional brace for approximately 6 weeks, during which crutches will be used. Weight-bearing is increased gradually, and initially, no weight is placed on the operated leg. At first, the brace will be locked in extension, and the permitted degrees of flexion will be increased each week.
Postoperatively, all patients follow an individualised physiotherapy programme to fully restore knee range of motion and strength.
Quadriceps Tendon Rupture – Return to Sports
Return to sports activities is recommended at least 6 months after surgery, with a gradual increase in intensity and frequency.
If you have a knee injury and a quadriceps tendon rupture, consult the specialised Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou immediately. For more information and appointments, please contact us.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.