View source for Patellar tendon rupture

==Background==
*Occurs via forceful contraction of quadriceps muscle or falling on flexed knee
*Typically occur 2cm from insertion on patella

==Clinical Features==
*Sudden "pop" or tearing
*Diffuse swelling
*Defect may be palpable below the patella
*Partial tears lead to difficulty extending the knee
*Complete tears lead to absent straight leg raise while supine or extension of the knee again

==Differential Diagnosis==
{{Knee DDX}}

==Evaluation==
[[File:Patellar_Tendon_Rupture.gif|thumbnail|Patellar tendon rupture<ref>http://www.thepocusatlas.com/musculoskeletal/</ref>]]
*[[Ultrasound: Tendons|Ultrasound]]
**Separation of the tendon can be visualized
*X-ray
**Patella alta (high-riding patella)

{{Patellar vs Quadriceps tendon rupture}}

==Management==
*Ortho consult in the ED
*Knee immobilizer, can be weight bearing
*Operative repair advised within 7 days

==Disposition==
*Outpatient

==See Also==
*[[Quadriceps tendon rupture]]

==References==
<references/>
*Uptodate
*Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics

[[Category:Orthopedics]]