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