Primary Quadriceps Tendon Suture Anchor Repair
Background: Quadriceps tendon ruptures are relatively rare soft-tissue musculoskeletal injuries. The incidence of quadriceps tendon ruptures has been reported to be 1.37/100,000. Repair of a quadriceps tendon rupture is necessary to restore the knee’s extensor mechanism and provide the patient with a functional gait. Multiple techniques have been reported for the repair of a quadriceps tendon rupture. Suture anchor repair is one such technique with reliable outcomes and predictable restoration of function. Purpose: This video overview and case presentation demonstrates the use of suture anchors to repair an acute quadriceps tendon rupture. Methods: The anatomy of, examination of, diagnosis of, and treatment options for quadriceps tendon rupture are reviewed. We discuss surgical indications and considerations, including an inability to perform a straight-leg raise and demonstration of a quadriceps tendon rupture on MRI. A 51-year-old man with an acute quadriceps tendon rupture is presented. After a thorough discussion of risks, benefits, and prognosis with our team, the patient elected to proceed with a quadriceps tendon suture anchor repair. Results: Successful repair with three suture anchors was completed intraoperatively. Postoperative clinical outcome showed good motion of the knee at the 6-week follow-up visit. Conclusion: Suture anchor repair offers a reliable restoration of function after an acute quadriceps tendon rupture. Ensuring appropriate intraoperative tensioning and establishing a postoperative plan with supervised physical therapy are crucial to obtaining good functional outcomes.