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Patella And Quadriceps Tendon Repair in Perth, WA

Dr. Samuel Duff treats quadriceps and patella tendon tears with surgical repair to restore knee strength and mobility. Most full tears require surgery and guided rehab.

Patella And Quadriceps Tendon Repair
Treatment

Knee Tendon Ruptures

Tears of the quadriceps or patella tendon are serious injuries that affect the ability to walk, stand, or extend the knee. These tendons are responsible for transferring power from the thigh to the lower leg, making them essential for daily mobility.

Dr. Samuel Duff provides expert diagnosis and surgical repair for quadriceps and patellar tendon ruptures throughout Australia.

Understanding Quadriceps and Patella Tendons

Understanding Quadriceps and Patella Tendons

The quadriceps tendon connects the large thigh muscles (quadriceps) to the top of the kneecap. The patella tendon then connects the kneecap to the tibia (shinbone), forming a powerful chain that straightens the knee and supports movement.

Recognising and Diagnosing

Knee Tendon Ruptures

A torn quadriceps or patella tendon causes sudden pain, swelling, and difficulty extending the leg. Diagnosis is confirmed with ultrasound or MRI to guide treatment.

Tap to openSymptoms of a Tendon Rupture

Symptoms of a Tendon Rupture

Common signs of a quadriceps or patella tendon tear include:

  • A sudden, tearing sensation above or below the kneecap
  • Immediate swelling and pain at the front of the knee
  • A visible gap or hollow near the tendon
  • Inability to extend the leg or bear weight normally
  • Weakness and reliance on a brace or crutches to prevent falls

These injuries often follow a single, traumatic event such as a trip or landing forcefully.

Tap to openConfirming the Diagnosis

Confirming the Diagnosis

To confirm the injury, your doctor may order:

  • Ultrasound to evaluate soft tissue
  • MRI to assess the full extent of the tendon tear and check for associated muscle injury

Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether surgical repair is necessary.

FAQs

Common Questions About Patella And Quadriceps Tendon Repair

Do I Need Surgery?

Most full-thickness tears of the quadriceps or patella tendon require surgery. Without surgical reattachment, the knee may remain weak and unstable. Minor or partial tears may be managed non-operatively, but these are less common.

Tendon repair surgery involves:

  • Reattaching the torn tendon to the kneecap (patella)
  • Using suture anchors and/or bone tunnels for strong fixation
  • Allowing the tendon to heal naturally over 6–12 weeks
  • A knee brace is worn to control bending and protect the repair
  • Bending is gradually increased over several weeks
  • Patients can walk full weight-bearing with the brace locked straight immediately after surgery
  • Crutches are used for balance until safe independent walking returns
  • Driving: 6–8 weeks (depending on which leg is affected)
  • Walking without crutches: around 6–8 weeks
  • Running or high-impact activity: 4–6 months
  • Full strength return: 6–9 months

Yes. Physiotherapy is essential to:

  • Rebuild strength in the quadriceps muscles
  • Regain range of motion over time
  • Ensure safe progression without overstressing the repair

Tendons must not be stretched for at least the first 12 weeks post-op to avoid re-tearing.

As with any operation, risks exist but are uncommon. These include:

  • Infection
  • Re-tear of the tendon
  • Knee stiffness
  • Blood clots (DVT)

Dr. Duff uses surgical techniques and aftercare protocols that reduce these risks and promote a safe recovery.

Book a Patella And Quadriceps Tendon Assessment

If you’ve experienced a sudden knee injury that leaves you unable to walk or extend your leg, immediate treatment is crucial.

 

Dr. Samuel Duff provides timely evaluation and surgical repair of quadriceps and patellar tendon injuries across Perth and Western Australia.