Simultaneous bilateral rupture of quadriceps tendons: analysis of risk factors and associations

South Med J. 2002 Aug;95(8):860-6.

Abstract

Background: Simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture is an uncommon injury that is frequently misdiagnosed. It has been associated with multiple medical conditions including renal disease, rheumatologic disorders, and endocrine disorders.

Methods: All reported cases of simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture were identified using MEDLINE. Each case was reviewed for information regarding the injury, and this information was analyzed.

Results: There were 66 cases of simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture reported in the English-language literature. This review presents descriptive data on all the cases and analyzes the following factors surrounding rupture: age, sex, time before diagnosis, mechanism of injury, location of rupture, and associated chronic diseases. Most patients were treated surgically, followed by 4 to 6 weeks of immobilization, which resulted in a good outcome.

Conclusion: Numerous associations were found and are discussed in this review. Patients with quadriceps tendon rupture should be evaluated for an underlying chronic disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leg Injuries / epidemiology*
  • Leg Injuries / etiology*
  • Leg Injuries / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Risk Factors
  • Rupture / epidemiology
  • Rupture / etiology
  • Rupture / therapy
  • Rupture, Spontaneous / epidemiology
  • Rupture, Spontaneous / etiology
  • Rupture, Spontaneous / therapy
  • Tendon Injuries / epidemiology*
  • Tendon Injuries / etiology*
  • Tendon Injuries / therapy