Extensor Mechanism Ruptures (knee) Flashcards
what does the extensor mechanisms of the knee consist of
tibial tuberosity, patellar tendon, patella, quadriceps tendon and the quadriceps muscles
what can cause the patellar tendon or the quadriceps tendon to rupture
rapid contractile force (e.g lifting a heavy weight), after a fall or spontaneously in a degenerated tendon
who do patellar tendon ruptures tend to affect
younger age group (under 40’s)
who do quadriceps tendon ruptures tend to affect
older patients (over 40’s)
what are some predisposing factors
history of tendonitis, chronic steroid use or abuse, diabetes, RA and chronic renal failure
what medication can cause tendonitis therefore risking tendon rupture
Quinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin)
are steroid injections recommended in tendonitis of the extensor mechanism of the knee
no due to high risk of tendon rupture
what assessment should be included in any acute knee injury to assess the extensor mechanism
straight led raise test (SLRT)
what can be palpated due to extensor tendon rupture
palpable gap
on xray what does a high patella mean
patellar tendon rupture
on xray what does a low lying patella mean
quadriceps tendon rupture
what do patients with partial tears tend to have
some extensor mechanism but reduced power
what investigation can be done in obese patients as the gap may not be palpable
ultrasound
what is the treatment of complete and substantial partial tears
surgical
what surgical measures is there
tendon to tendon repair or reattachment of the tendon to the patella
