Quadriceps tendon tear rupture in healthy patients treated with patellar drilling holes: clinical and ultrasonographic analysis after 36 months of follow-up

摘要

Background: quadriceps tendon subcutaneous rupture is an uncommon injury affecting predominantly middle-aged men as a result of direct or indirect trauma; aim of this work is to evaluate clinical outcome and tendon morphology in patients treated surgically with transpatellar drilling suture.udMethods: 20 patients (20 male) with an average age of 54 (42-59) were evaluated with a mean follow-up of 36 months.udMeasurements of range of motion (ROM) and of tight circumference were collected. Lysholm and Rougraff Score were also performed.udAll the patients underwent a US evaluation the morphologic changes of the repaired tendon.udResults: mean active ROM was 1°-117°; average difference in the circumference of the quadriceps was 2.6% 10 C and 3.3% 15 C. The mean Lysholm Score calculated was 88/100; the mean Rougraff Score 17/25.udAt ultrasonographic evaluation all tendons were continuous; heterotopic ossification was present in 18 quadriceps tendons. Thickness was augmented in 18 quadriceps tendons and in 5 patellar tendons.udVascularization was always conserved. Lateral subluxation of patella was reported in 1 case.udConclusions: patellar drilling holes repair is a nondemanding procedure, inexpensive and technically uncomplicated.udUS evaluation confirms tendon healing; tendon remodeling does not affect patient’s clinical outcome and quality of life.