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Rectus femoris tendon rupture

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Sudden severe knee pain whilst performing squats in the gym.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male
mri

Rupture of rectus femoris component of the quadriceps tendon with retraction. Vastus lateralis and intermedius remain intact and vastus medialis is only partially disrupted. The patellar position remains normal in relation to the femoral trochlea.

Case Discussion

The quadriceps tendon is made up of 4 muscles ie vastus lateralis, medialis and intermedius as well as rectus femoris. Quadriceps tendon rupture can be complete or incomplete. If incomplete, usually the largest component tears, i.e. rectus femoris (as in this case).

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