What is Quadriceps Tendon Repair?

Quadriceps tendon repair is a surgical procedure that reconnects a torn quadriceps tendon to the patella (kneecap). This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Procedure steps include the following:

• A knee incision is made
• Tiny holes are drilled in the top of the patella
• Sutures are passed through the torn tendon and then the holes
• Sutures are gently pulled and then carefully tied to bring the tendon and bone together

The incision is carefully closed and sterilely dressed and the knee is placed in a hinged knee brace that is set to a locked position. The patient returns home shortly after the procedure and the knee remains immobilized for at least 2 weeks. The brace is adjusted in intervals and the patient is able to move their knee as the tendon heals.

What Does a Quadriceps Tendon Repair Treat?

The quadriceps tendon is very important because it connects the thigh muscles to the kneecap and thus helps perform the movement that straightens the leg. Partial or complete quadriceps tendon tear may be caused by:

• Direct blows to the knee
• Falls
• Forceful jump lands
• Lacerations

Symptoms that patients should be aware of include:

• Bruising
• Difficulty straightening the leg
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Weakness

Nonsurgical treatment options can treat partial tears, but the majority of complete tears require a quadriceps tendon repair procedure.

At Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics (OIO) our Board Certified and Fellowship Trained knee specialists Dr. Michael Sclafani, Dr. Anthony Petrosini and Dr. Toby Husserl are experts in quadriceps tendon repairs.

Patients who injure their knee and experience symptoms should make an appointment with an OIO specialist as soon as possible. Delaying a diagnosis can make symptoms and the injury worse.