Quadriceps Tendon Rupture

Illustration of a quadriceps tendon rupture - Melbourne Knee Surgery

What is a quadriceps tendon injury?

The quadriceps tendon connects the thigh muscles (quadriceps) to the patella. It allows the quadriceps muscle to straighten the knee. If the tendon ruptures, there will be an inability to straighten the knee.

These injuries can occur if the quadriceps tendon is abnormally weak with patients who have pre-existing inflammation of the tendon (quadriceps tendonitis) or who are on steroids (corticosteroids or anabolic steroids).

What are the symptoms of a quadriceps tendon injury?

A quadriceps tendon rupture will cause pain and swelling of the knee joint. There will be associated bruising around the soft tissues surrounding the knee. A complete quadriceps tendon rupture will cause an inability to straighten or extend the knee. 

How do you treat a quadriceps tendon injury?

Partial injuries to the quadriceps tendon can sometimes be treated with bracing. However, partial injuries are infrequent.

A complete quadriceps tendon rupture requires a tendon repair to restore the ability to straighten the knee.

What does surgery for a quadriceps tendon injury involve?

An incision is made over the quadriceps tendon at the front of the knee. Sutures are used to stitch the torn quadriceps tendon and attach it back to the patella using bony anchors.

What is the recovery following surgery for a quadriceps tendon rupture?

A hinged brace is applied after surgery. This is usually held with the knee locked in full extension for 2 weeks to allow the wounds to heal. You will commence weight bearing the day after surgery, with the knee fully straight in the brace. Following this, the brace is unlocked and the range of motion gradually increased in 2-week intervals. You will be referred to a physiotherapist to help you regain your range of motion and strengthen your muscles. 

The wounds from surgery take 2 weeks to heal. The quadriceps tendon itself will take a minimum of 6 weeks to heal. The recovery period, including outpatient rehabilitation, can take up to 3-4 months.