Rupture of the Achilles and patellar tendons

Abstract

Certain similarities can clearly be appreciated between Achilles and patellar tendon ruptures. Both are strong tendons that transmit force bridging at least one joint of the lower limb. When healthy, both require massive forces to be disrupted, and both can be weakened through certain systemic disease processes, steroids, and fluoroquinones. Both allow for a variety of innovative management possibilities that ultimately lend themselves to individual surgical preference. We feel that, although surgical management plays an important role in restoring continuity in knee extension and in plantar flexion, functional outcome inevitably relies on patient motivation and a well-established physiotherapy regime. Sports physicians should be able to identify both conditions early in their presentation, but still hold a high index of suspicion for these problems in athletes who have an acute exacerbation of ongoing tendinopathy.