Patellar Tendon Rupture

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Patellar Tendon Rupture

Authors, Editors, Case Information Author: Joseph Brutzkus, MD Affiliation: University of Illinois at Chicago Co Author(s): Ankur Verma, DO Senior Editor: William Berrigan, MD Clinical Vignette: 41 yr old M with knee pain after feeling a pop while playing basketball 6 weeks prior. On exam, there is a palpable defect at the infrapatellar space and weakness with knee extension. Type of Probe Used: 4-15 mHz Linear Transducer SAX Short Axis of the Infrapatellar Space (please note arrows are pointing out defect) LAX Long Axis of the Infrapatellar Space SAX Short Axis of the Infrapatellar Space LAX Long Axis of the Infrapatellar space Interpretation Image Interpretation: In the long axis view, there is disruption of the proximal aspect of the patellar tendon, consistent with full-thickness patellar tendon rupture. On short-axis imaging, the fat pad can be seen in a more superior position than expected due to the defect in the tendon. There are also hyperechoic areas within the fat pad, suggestive of fibrosis. Teaching Pearl: This is an example of how ultrasound can be used as a point-of-care modality to diagnose large tendon tears, including patellar tendon tears as in this case. It is important to scan the entire width of the tendon in both long and short axis to look for continuity and to help delineate the extent of the tendon tear. If there is an area of interest, you can have the patient attempt to contract their quad to further visualize the structure and investigate for discordance.
NOTE: For more information, please contact the AMSSM, 4000 W. 114th Street, Suite 100, Leawood, KS 66211 (913) 327-1415.

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Authors, Editors, Case Information

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Interpretation

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