The quadriceps tendon connects the quadriceps muscles of the thigh to the kneecap, and the patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shinbone. These important tendons must be healthy and strong to allow the knee to function properly.
Tears in the patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon most often occur when the quadriceps muscles quickly contract when the knee is bent during a slip, fall, or landing from a jump. If either tendon is torn, straightening the knee will be difficult or impossible.
In cases of large tears, surgery is often needed to repair the patellar or quadriceps tendon using sutures. This gives the best chance for a full recovery and return to normal activities.
During surgery for a torn patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon, an incision is made along the front of the knee. This allows a surgeon to access the torn tendon, stitch it back together, and reattach it to the kneecap with anchors.
