From the Guidelines
Splints are not recommended as a primary treatment for quadriceps tendon ruptures, as they may prevent restoration of normal movement and function, and can lead to potential problems such as increased attention and focus to the area, accessory muscle use, compensatory movement strategies, immobilisation, and learnt non-use. The provided evidence 1 discusses the potential drawbacks of splinting in the context of functional neurological disorders, which can be applied to the treatment of quadriceps tendon ruptures. While the study does not directly address quadriceps tendon ruptures, it highlights the importance of encouraging normal movement patterns and resting postures before considering splinting.
In the context of quadriceps tendon ruptures, surgical repair is generally necessary to reattach the tendon and restore function [no direct evidence provided, but based on general medical knowledge]. After surgery, a hinged knee brace (not a splint) is typically used as part of rehabilitation, with gradually increasing range of motion. The use of splints may be considered in some cases, but their benefits should be carefully balanced against potential harm, and patients should be monitored regularly for adverse side effects 1.
Some key points to consider when treating quadriceps tendon ruptures include:
- The importance of surgical repair to restore the knee's extensor mechanism
- The use of a hinged knee brace as part of rehabilitation
- The potential drawbacks of splinting, including increased attention and focus to the area, accessory muscle use, and immobilisation
- The need to encourage normal movement patterns and resting postures before considering splinting 1.
Overall, the treatment of quadriceps tendon ruptures should prioritize surgical repair and rehabilitation with a hinged knee brace, rather than relying on splints as a primary treatment 1.
From the Research
Treatment of Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures
- Quadriceps tendon ruptures can be treated surgically or non-operatively, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient's overall health 2, 3.
- Surgical treatment involves repairing the torn tendon, usually using a transosseous tunnel or suture anchor technique 2, 4.
- Non-operative treatment is typically reserved for partial quadriceps ruptures or patients who are unfit for surgery, and involves immobilization with a hinged knee brace 2, 5.
Use of Splints in Treatment
- Splints can be used in the treatment of quadriceps tendon ruptures to provide stability and support to the knee joint 5, 6.
- A straight splint may be used for 6-8 weeks after surgery to allow the tendon to heal 5.
- The use of a splint can help to reduce the risk of complications, such as knee stiffness and quadriceps muscle atrophy, by allowing for controlled mobility and weight-bearing 6.
Outcomes and Complications
- Surgical repair of quadriceps tendon ruptures can result in excellent outcomes, with most patients achieving near-full recovery of range of motion and returning to pre-injury levels of function 2, 3.
- Complications, such as knee stiffness and quadriceps muscle atrophy, can occur, but can usually be treated with proper rehabilitation 2, 6.
- More severe complications, such as deep venous thrombosis and tendon rerupture, are rare but can occur, especially if treatment is delayed 2, 4.