Ethan Vallellanes, Patrick Waldron, James L. Chen, A. Malige
2026.1.1JBJS Case Connector
tlooto Summary
This case demonstrated a rare injury pattern treated with surgical repair and a structured rehabilitation program that led to a functional recovery and underscores the mechanical, technical, and compliance-related factors that contributed to this catastrophic sequential extensor-mechanism failure.
Abstract
CASE We present the case of a 27-year-old man who sustained a quadriceps tendon rupture within 3 months after surgical repair of an ipsilateral patellar tendon rupture repaired with the transosseous technique. At 1-year follow-up, the patient demonstrated outcome measures indicating an excellent functional recovery.
CONCLUSION This case demonstrated a rare injury pattern treated with surgical repair and a structured rehabilitation program that led to a functional recovery. The case underscores the mechanical, technical, and compliance-related factors that contributed to this catastrophic sequential extensor-mechanism failure. Comprehensive patient education, careful tunnel planning, and structured follow-up are essential to optimize healing and prevent recurrence.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, Case Report.
Citation format
VALLELLANES, Ethan, et al. Quadriceps tendon rupture while rehabilitating from a patellar tendon repair: A case report. JBJS Case Connector, 2026, 16 1(1).