Complete Proximal Rectus Femoris Avulsion Repair in a Division I Collegiate Track Athlete: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Sports medicine
• Athletic injuries

Background:

• Avulsion injuries of the rectus femoris tendon can occur in athletes.
• Tears from the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) are less common but can be debilitating.
• Significant tendon retraction may impact recovery and return to sport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of a complete rectus femoris direct head tendon avulsion from the AIIS in a young athlete.
• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical repair for this specific injury.
• To determine the potential for a full return to sport after surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

• A 20-year-old track athlete presented with hip pain and weakness after a pop during a race.
• Physical examination revealed a defect distal to the AIIS.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed a complete tear of the rectus femoris direct head tendon with 3 cm of retraction.
• The athlete underwent proximal rectus femoris avulsion repair.

Main Results:

• The surgical repair was successful.
• The athlete experienced a full return to her sport.
• No complications were reported post-operatively.

Conclusions:

• Surgical repair of isolated rectus femoris direct head avulsion from the AIIS is a viable option for athletes.
• This intervention can lead to a full and timely return to sport, even with significant tendon retraction.
• The case highlights the importance of considering surgical management for high-level athletes with this injury.