Leg/Knee Case 7 Diagnosis

Patellar/Quadriceps Tendon Rupture

Knee x-rays, including AP and lateral, are indicated for all suspected patellar/quadriceps tendon ruptures.

- On the lateral films, a high riding patella (patella alta) will be seen with patellar tendon ruptures, whereas a low riding patella (patella baja) will be seen with quadriceps tendon rupture. A defect in the suprapatellar region can also often be appreciated with quad tendon ruptures.

- Outpatient MRI is the confirmatory test when further workup is required.