Proximal Patellar Tendinosis And Partial Tearing
 

Author: Laura Mattson, DO
Affiliation: Spectrum Health Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Co Author(s): Raul Rosario-Concepcion, MD
Senior Editor: Raul Rosario-Concepcion, MD

Clinical Vignette: 15yo male basketball player presenting for bilateral anterior knee pain for 2 years, insidious in onset, worsening over time and provoked by running and jumping. Exam shows tenderness to palpation over the inferior pole of the patellae and proximal patellar tendons bilaterally, with intact extensor mechanisms (no lag).

Type of Probe Used: 3-14 MHz linear array transducer



Long axis view of the proximal patellar tendon at its insertion on the inferior pole of the patella.


Long axis view of the proximal patellar tendon demonstrating thickening and heterogenous echotexture. The proximal patellar tendon measures between 0.8-1cm in thickness versus the more distal, normal appearing tendon which measures 0.4cm. An area of partial thickness tearing is encircled. Adjacent cortical irregularities are appreciated in the inferior patellar pole.


Short axis view of the proximal patellar tendon, just distal to its insertion on the inferior pole of the patella.


Short axis view of the proximal patellar tendon, demonstrating partial thickness tearing of the central, undersurface fibers.


Long axis view of the proximal patellar tendon demonstrating increased neovascularity on color doppler in the central undersurface tendon fibers.
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The proximal patellar tendon is scanned in long axis from medial to lateral. The patellar tendon appears thickened and of heterogenous echotexture proximally, with partial thickness tearing of the central undersurface fibers. There are associated cortical irregularities of the inferior patellar pole.
View Video

The patellar tendon is scanned in short axis from distal to proximal from the level just above the tibial tuberosity to the level just below the inferior pole of the patella. At the proximal-most portion, there is evidence of tendon thickening as well as partial thickness tearing of the central undersurface tendon fibers.

NOTE: For more information, please contact the AMSSM, 4000 W. 114th Street, Suite 100, Leawood, KS 66211 (913) 327-1415.
 

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Phone: 913.327.1415


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