In Week 8 of this NFL season, Houston Texans offensive tackle Derek Newton suffered bilateral patella tendons rupture against the Denver Broncos. Newton's injury was particularly rare not only because of it's bilateral nature but also because it occured without direct trauma. This is a season-ending injury for Newton. On the field, Newton received immediate immobilization and eventually underwent surgery to repair the tendons.

Patella Tendon Rupture:

Who: Usually a < 40 year old athlete who falls with knee flexed
Cause: Underlying tendon weakness:

• Tendonitis in runners, athletes who have ‘jumper’s knee’
• Steroid injections into tendon
• Chronic renal failure, RA, SLE, DM, Infection, Metabolic disease

Exam: Unable to extend leg
Plain Film: Patella Alta (see image)
Treatment:

• Immobilization
• Consultation with orthopedic surgeon for surgical repair

Courtesy NFL

Quadriceps Tendon Rupture:

Who: Typicall a > 40 year old patient presenting after fall with knee flexed.
Cause: Underlying tendon weakness:

• Tendonitis in runners, sports involving jumping
• Chronic diseases: renal disease, gout/RA/SLE, DM, infections
• Steroid use
• Fluoroquinolones

Exam: Unable to extend leg
Plain Film: Patella Baja (see image)
Treatment:

• Immobilization
• Consultation with orthopedic surgeon for surgical repair

Courtesy CSNPhilly

 Photo Credit