Patellar tendon rupture

Background

• Occurs via forceful contraction of quadriceps muscle or falling on flexed knee
• Quadriceps rupture proximal to the patella while patellar tendon ruptures are distal
• Typically occur 2cm from insertion on patella
• Patellar tendon rupture
  • Pts <40yr w/ history of tendinitis or steroid injections
• Quadriceps tendon rupture
  • Pts >40yr

Clinical Features

• Sudden "pop" or tearing
• Diffuse swelling
• Defect may be palpable above or below the patella
• Partial tears lead to difficulty extending the knee
• Complete tears lead to absent straight leg raise while supine or extension of the knee again

Imaging

• High-riding patella may be seen on lateral w/ patellar tendon rupture

Management

• Ortho consult in the ED

Source

• Tintinalli