Simultaneous bilateral rupture of quadriceps tendons: analysis of risk factors and associations.

BACKGROUND

Simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture is an uncommon injury that is frequently misdiagnosed. It has been associated with multiple medical conditions including renal disease, rheumatologic disorders, and endocrine disorders.

METHODS

All reported cases of simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture were identified using MEDLINE. Each case was reviewed for information regarding the injury, and this information was analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 66 cases of simultaneous bilateral quadriceps tendon rupture reported in the English-language literature. This review presents descriptive data on all the cases and analyzes the following factors surrounding rupture: age, sex, time before diagnosis, mechanism of injury, location of rupture, and associated chronic diseases. Most patients were treated surgically, followed by 4 to 6 weeks of immobilization, which resulted in a good outcome.

CONCLUSION

Numerous associations were found and are discussed in this review. Patients with quadriceps tendon rupture should be evaluated for an underlying chronic disease.