The quadriceps tendon is a crucial component in straightening the leg and connecting the thigh muscles to the kneecap. Injuries to this tendon can cause partial or complete tears, leading to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, tenderness, weakness, and difficulty straightening the leg. While non-surgical treatments can be effective for partial tears, complete tears typically require a quadriceps tendon repair procedure. During the surgery, an incision is made, tiny holes are drilled in the top of the patella, then sutures are passed through the tendon and holes to tie them together. Recovery involves immobilizing the knee for at least 2 weeks with a hinged brace adjusted over time. Patients who experience symptoms of a quadriceps tendon tear should schedule an appointment with one of our specialists as soon as possible. Delaying diagnosis and treatment can lead to further injury and worsened symptoms. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get on the road to recovery.
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:
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.
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:
Symptoms that patients should be aware of include:
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.
