Quadriceps tendon rupture
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Synopsis
Quadriceps tendon rupture usually occurs in patients over 40 years of age. It often affects the nondominant lower extremity. It occurs when the tendon fails at its insertion on the proximal patella.
Risk factors include diabetes, renal failure, connective tissue disease, and rheumatoid arthritis / autoimmune disease; pre-existing tendonitis / disease is usually present when a rupture occurs. Medication risk factors include anabolic steroids and corticosteroids (systemic or injection into the tendon), aromatase inhibitors, statins, and fluoroquinolones.
Quadriceps tendon rupture is typically, but not always, an isolated injury. Bilateral extensor mechanism injuries can occur. Ipsilateral knee ligamentous injury occurs about 9%-10% of time in association with quadriceps tendon rupture.
Codes
M66.88 – Spontaneous rupture of other tendons, other sites
SNOMEDCT:
6849006 – Rupture of quadriceps tendon
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Last Updated:04/27/2023