Patellar Tendon Rupture - Everything You Need To Know - Dr. Nabil Ebraheim

Video Description

Dr. Ebraheim’s educational animated video describes the conditions and treatment of Patellar Tendon Ruptures.
A patellar tendon rupture is rupture of the tendon that connects the patella to the tibia. Rupture often occurs at the lower pole insertion site of the patella and it could be associated with degenerative changes.
Rupture most often occurs in patients younger than 40 years of age. When the tendon is ruptured, the quadriceps muscle pulls the patella upward.
One way to measure patella height is by measuring the Blumensaat’s line. The knee needs to be flexed at least 30 degrees, then a line can be drawn through the roof of the intercondylar notch and usually touches the tip of the patella.
The patella moves upward with the patellar tendon rupture (patella alta).
Associated risk factors
•Rheumatoid arthritis
•Diabetes
•Chronic renal failure
•Systemic corticosteroid therapy
•Chronic patellar tendonitis.
•Degenerative changes
Radiographic evaluation
•AP and lateral X-ray
•Patella alta seen on lateral view.
•Patella superior to Blumensaat’s line.
•MRI is effective means to access the patellar tendon, especially if other intraarticular or soft tissue injuries are suspected.
Treatment
•Surgical reattachment of the tendon.
•Keep the knee in extension and in a knee immobilizer for about 4-6 weeks.