Adolescent Quadriceps Tendon Rupture, an Early Complication After ACL Reconstruction: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Traumatology

Background:

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are common in adolescent athletes, often requiring surgical reconstruction.
• Bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft is a standard technique for ACL reconstruction.
• Quadriceps tendon ruptures are infrequent but serious complications, typically seen in older populations.

Observation:

• A healthy adolescent male sustained a complete ACL rupture during football.
• Four weeks post-ACL reconstruction, the patient experienced a fall leading to knee hyperflexion.
• This incident resulted in an ipsilateral quadriceps tendon rupture.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of quadriceps tendon rupture in an adolescent after ACL reconstruction.
• The complication occurred due to a secondary injury event (fall with hyperflexion).
• The patient's young age and the specific injury mechanism are notable.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for rare, severe complications even in young, healthy athletes undergoing ACL surgery.
• Suggests a need for careful rehabilitation and patient education to prevent secondary injuries post-ACL reconstruction.
• Underscores the importance of considering quadriceps tendon integrity in athletes presenting with knee pain after surgery.