Quadriceps and Patella Tendon Injury Orthopedics

The quadriceps are a group of four leg muscles in the front of your thigh that connect to the patella (kneecap) and tibia through a singular tendon. The patella relies on this tendon for movement and stability from above, as well as the smaller patella tendon that attaches to the lower portion of the kneecap to the tibia. When either of these tendons are stretched or torn, it can impact the kneecap and joint function. Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center offers quadriceps and patella tendon injury orthopedic care at our facility in Miami, FL.

The quadriceps and patella tendons are needed to fully extend and straighten the leg. If these tendons are strained, it can cause pain and swelling with difficulty straightening the leg under stress. Torn tendons can greatly impact leg function and require surgery to repair or reconstruct the tendons. A partially torn quadriceps tendon may be treated without surgery but a completely torn tendon will require surgery to restore the ability to extend the leg. The same is true for the patella tendon. In most cases, the tendons are torn either above or below the kneecap, but not both.

Kneecap Tendon Reconstruction

If either the quadriceps or patella tendon are torn, surgery is used to repair or reconnect the tendon. In most cases, the strands of the tendon can be reconnected to the patella or tibia with sutures or surgical hardware. This surgery is best performed quickly after the injury for the best results – the tendon can move and deteriorate, making it more difficult to repair. This injury often occurs in athletes, especially older or middle-aged, and immediate surgery is required to restore complete knee and leg function.

Dr. Glashow is one of the top orthopedic surgeons and knee specialists in the country. He has helped countless professional athletes recover from serious knee injuries and return to performing at the highest level. His orthopedic surgery center offers same day appointments and quick turnaround for surgery to ensure patients can begin their recovery from serious injuries like patella/quadriceps tears. Contact our center in Miami, FL, if you need an appointment for a tendon or knee injury.