patellar tendon rupture
Last reviewed 01/2018
Isolated patellar tendon rupture is a rare injury which results in disruption of the extensor mechanism of the knee (1).
- the condition is the third most common type of injury to the extensor mechanism of the knee following patella fracture and quadriceps tendon rupture. (2)
- mainly seen in patients who are in their third and fourth decades (1)
- more common in males than in females (1)
The injury can be
- indirect - more common, caused by rapid contraction of the quadriceps muscles with a flexed knee
- direct - less common, caused by a violent impact against a taut quadriceps tendon (3)
Bilateral simultaneous rupture is seen on rare occasions (e.g. - in chronic systemic diseases) (1).
Reference:
- (1) Greis PE, Holmstrom MC, Lahav A.Surgical treatment options for patella tendon rupture, Part I: Acute. Orthopedics. 2005 Jul;28(7):672-9
- (2) Ramseier LE, Werner CM, Heinzelmann M. Quadriceps and patellar tendon rupture. Injury. Jun 2006;37(6):516-9.
- (3) Bartalena T et al.Patellar tendon rupture: radiologic and ultrasonographic findings. West J Emerg Med. 2010 Feb;11(1):90-1.