[Proximal rupture of the hamstring tendon : From clinical presentation to diagnosis and therapy]

Rupture of the proximal tendon enthesis of the hamstring muscle (ICM) accounts for approximately 10% of all injuries of the ICM. It occurs most commonly in athletes and active middle-aged individuals. The complete rupture of all three tendons in active patients is generally seen as an indication for surgical repair of the tendon enthesis; however, the correct diagnosis is often not reached in a timely manner. This can lead to prolonged symptoms with pain, weakness and neuralgia. Operative treatment consists of anchor repair of the tendons resulting in good clinical outcome in several case series. Good knowledge of the anatomy and operative approach are mandatory to avoid complications as well as compliance with a gradual rehabilitation scheme to allow tendon to bone healing. The main aim of this review is to highlight the typical history, clinical presentation and examination technique to reach an immediate clinical diagnosis which should be confirmed with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.