Quadriceps Tendon Repair and Patellar Tendon Tear Treatment

The quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon are part of the knee’s extensor mechanism. These tendons work together to straighten the leg and support standing, walking, and climbing.

Quadriceps tendon repair and patellar tendon repair are surgical procedures that reattach torn or ruptured tendons to the kneecap (patella). The goal is to restore the ability to extend the leg, restore function, and stabilize the knee joint.

Surgical Treatment Options for Quadriceps and Patellar Tendon Ruptures

Decisions about patellar or quadriceps tendon repair are based on the severity of the injury to the knee. Complete ruptures of the quadriceps or patellar tendon are intensely painful and make it difficult or impossible to extend the knee or bear weight normally. Surgical repair is typically required to restore knee function.

Quadriceps tendon repair involves a surgical procedure to reattach the torn tendon to the top of the kneecap (patella). The surgery is routinely performed on an outpatient basis using a small open incision. The knee surgeon will use high-strength permanent sutures, which are sewn into the tendon and then fixed to the patella via bone tunnels or anchors. Surgery typically takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Quadriceps or patellar tendon repair surgery should be performed early, within days of the injury, to prevent tendon shortening and improve recovery outcomes.

Non-surgical Treatment Options for Quadriceps and Patellar Tendon Injuries

Even a partial tear of the quadriceps or patellar tendon can cause significant pain, swelling, and weakness, especially when straightening the knee, climbing stairs, or standing from a seated position. When the tendon is not completely torn and patients are still able to extend the leg, these injuries can often be treated successfully without surgery.

Non-surgical quadriceps or patellar tendon rupture treatment includes:

Rest
Bracing
Physical therapy
Use of crutches or a walker
Medication, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for inflammation

In some cases, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be used to enhance patellar or quadriceps tendon rupture treatment. Early evaluation and appropriate knee tendon care can improve recovery outcomes.

When is Surgery Necessary

Quadriceps or patellar tendon repair surgery is necessary to restore strength and movement when the tendon ruptures completely. Even a partial tear requires surgery if it prevents the knee from functioning normally.

Surgery may also be recommended when symptoms persist despite conservative quadriceps tendon pain treatment, or when weakness, instability, or limited motion interfere with daily activity.

Recovery Time After Quadriceps or Patellar Tendon Surgery

After surgical quadriceps or patellar tendon repair, patients are placed in a brace to immobilize the knee and may be able to walk on the leg right away. However, there will be limitations on knee flexion for 1 to 2 months. Physical therapy starts early and is required to regain full strength, mobility, and function. Full recovery and return to sport is expected in 6 to 12 months after surgery.

Schedule an Evaluation with an Orthopedic Knee Specialist

At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our board-certified and fellowship-trained knee specialists provide advanced treatment for patellar or quadriceps tendon repair. We focus on restoring your strength, stability, and full knee function through both surgical and non-surgical care.

We develop a personalized treatment plan and design your physical therapy to get you back to you.

Find a knee surgeon that performs quadriceps repair or patellar tendon tear surgery.

Find a Knee Surgeon

Find an Orthopedic Surgeon

Schedule an Evaluation with an Orthopedic Knee Specialist

We develop a personalized treatment plan and design your physical therapy to get you back to you.

Find a knee surgeon who performs quadriceps repair or patellar tendon tear surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

At your first visit, you’ll meet with a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic knee specialist who will take time to understand your symptoms, concerns, and goals. Your appointment begins with a detailed review of your medical history and any imaging or test results you’ve had. Your knee doctor will perform a focused physical exam to evaluate your joint's stability, range of motion, and any areas of pain or swelling.
If more information is needed, your knee doctor may arrange additional diagnostic tests, including X-rays or an MRI. Then you'll discuss the likely causes of your symptoms and review both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Before you leave, your specialist will outline a personalized plan for next steps, ensuring you feel informed and supported from day one.
At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, we're pleased to provide a consultation with our award-winning team of knee specialists to fully discuss your condition and chart a treatment path. To schedule your appointment, please call our scheduling team at (949) 890-0464. or complete this secure request form.
We’ll connect you with the orthopedic knee doctor best suited to your needs and can help arrange any imaging or medical records before your visit.
Hoag Orthopedic Institute’s knee specialists treat a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries such as meniscus or cartilage damage to complex ligament tears, fractures, and advanced arthritis. Your non-surgical treatment options may include individualized physical therapy, bracing for added stability, or image-guided injections to reduce inflammation and ease pain. In many cases, a conservative approach can often restore mobility, delay, or even avoid the need for surgery.
When surgery offers the best long-term results, our orthopedic knee surgeons perform procedures including arthroscopic ligament repair, cartilage restoration, partial knee replacement, and total knee replacement. If knee replacement is necessary, rest assured that HOI’s fellowship trained knee surgeons lead the Western United States in joint replacement surgeries, translating into better outcomes for our patients.
Many of our knee surgeons use advanced robotic-assisted systems that help protect surrounding healthy tissue, provide exceptional surgical accuracy, and ensure optimal alignment for each patient’s unique anatomy. Our knee doctors design every treatment plan to reduce pain, restore movement, and support lasting knee health.
At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our board-certified, fellowship-trained knee doctors, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists provide advanced care for a full spectrum of knee injuries and conditions. Our qualified knee specialists offer both surgical and non-surgical solutions tailored to each patient. Highly effective non-surgical knee treatment may include personalized physical therapy, bracing, or targeted injections to relieve pain and improve mobility.
When surgery is the most effective path forward, our orthopedic knee surgeons use cutting-edge robotic-assisted systems, ensuring exceptional precision, personalized implant alignment, and minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. Our team uses the latest surgical techniques, robotic surgery and other innovative surgical approaches, to give patients a 5-star experience, getting them back to what they love faster. From diagnosis through rehabilitation, you’ll work with a dedicated team of experienced knee specialists focused on your comfort, safety, and long-term knee health.
Let’s help you return to the activities you love with confidence.

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