Quadriceps Tendon Repair in Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA
If a quadriceps tendon tear is causing knee weakness, difficulty straightening your leg, instability, or limiting your ability to walk, climb stairs, or participate in physical activities, quadriceps tendon repair may help restore strength and function. At Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA, our orthopedic specialists provide advanced treatment options for quadriceps tendon injuries, including both non-surgical management and surgical tendon repair. Patients throughout Sebring, Winter Haven, and surrounding Central Florida communities trust our experienced team for comprehensive knee care focused on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and helping them return to active lifestyles with confidence.
What is Quadriceps Tendon Tear?
Quadriceps tendon is a thick tissue located at the top of the kneecap. The quadriceps tendon works together with the quadriceps muscles to allow us to straighten our leg. The quadriceps muscles are the muscles located in front of the thigh.
Quadriceps tendon rupture most commonly occurs in middle-aged people who participate in sports which involve jumping and running. Quadriceps tear occurs by a fall, direct blow to the leg and when you land on your leg awkwardly from a jump. Other causes include tendonitis (inflammation of quadriceps tendon), diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, and infection which weakens the quadriceps tendon. Use of medications such as steroids and some antibiotics also weakens the quadriceps tendon.
What are the Symptoms of Quadriceps Tendon Tear?
When the quadriceps tendon tear, the patella may lose its anchoring support in the thigh, as a result, the patella moves towards the foot. You will be unable to straighten your knee and upon standing the knee buckles upon itself.
How is Quadriceps Tendon Tear Diagnosed?
To identify a quadriceps tendon tear your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination of your knee. Some imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI scan may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. X-ray of the knee is taken to know the position of the kneecap and MRI scan to know the extent and location of the tear.
What Does Quadriceps Tendon Repair Involve?
Quadriceps tendon tear can be treated by non-surgical and surgical methods. Non-surgical treatment involves the use of knee braces to immobilize the knee. Crutches may be needed to prevent the joint from bearing weight. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore the strength and increase range of motion of the knee.
Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis; it cannot be repaired arthroscopically since the tendon is outside the joint. The goal of the surgery is to re-attach the torn tendon to knee cap and to restore the normal function of the knee. Sutures are placed in the torn tendon which is then passed through the holes drilled in the knee cap. The sutures are tied at the bottom of the knee cap to pull the torn edge of the tendon back to its normal position.
Surgical complications include weakness and loss of motion. In some cases, the tendon which is re-attached may detach from the knee cap or re-tears may also occur. Other complications such as pain, infection and blood clot may be observed.
After the Surgery
Following surgery, a brace may be needed to protect the healing tendon. Complete healing of the tendon will take about 4 months.
Why Choose Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA for Quadriceps Tendon Repair?
Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA offers comprehensive orthopedic care delivered by experienced specialists who understand the significant impact a quadriceps tendon injury can have on daily activities and athletic performance. Our team utilizes advanced diagnostic imaging, personalized treatment plans, and modern surgical techniques to achieve optimal outcomes for each patient. From initial diagnosis through rehabilitation and recovery, we are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care designed to restore knee function, improve mobility, and support long-term success.
Quadriceps Tendon Repair FAQs
What is a quadriceps tendon repair?
Quadriceps tendon repair is a surgical procedure that reattaches a torn quadriceps tendon to the kneecap (patella), restoring the ability to straighten the knee and improving overall leg function.
When is quadriceps tendon repair surgery recommended?
Surgery is typically recommended for complete tendon tears or significant injuries that prevent normal knee function and cannot heal adequately with conservative treatment.
How is a quadriceps tendon tear diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically includes a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI scans to determine the location and severity of the tear.
Is quadriceps tendon repair performed arthroscopically?
No. Because the quadriceps tendon is located outside the knee joint, quadriceps tendon repair is generally performed through an open surgical approach.
How long does quadriceps tendon repair surgery take?
The procedure is commonly performed on an outpatient basis, and surgery duration varies depending on the severity of the injury and individual patient factors.
How long is the recovery after quadriceps tendon repair?
Recovery timelines vary, but complete tendon healing typically takes approximately four months. Rehabilitation and physical therapy play an important role in restoring strength and range of motion.
Will I need a knee brace after surgery?
Yes. A knee brace is often used after surgery to protect the repaired tendon while it heals and to support safe rehabilitation.
What are the risks of quadriceps tendon repair?
Potential risks include infection, blood clots, pain, stiffness, weakness, loss of motion, or re-tearing of the repaired tendon. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you prior to treatment.
Schedule a Quadriceps Tendon Repair Consultation in Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA
If knee pain, weakness, instability, or difficulty straightening your leg is affecting your quality of life, the orthopedic specialists at Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA can help. Contact Florida Joint & Spine Institute, PA today to schedule a consultation and learn whether quadriceps tendon repair is the right treatment option for your condition. Our experienced orthopedic team proudly serves patients throughout Sebring, Winter Haven, and surrounding Central Florida communities with advanced, personalized knee care.
For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, call us at or click here to request an appointment online. We’ll respond to you as soon as possible.
