HSS Ultrasound of the Month Case #93

Clinical History 51 year old male with pain and weakness in extending the knee after acute sports injury.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 93

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 93

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Ultrasound of the Month – Case 93

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Diagnosis: Avulsion fracture of the superior pole of the patella and partial rupture of the quadriceps tendon.

Discussion: Quadriceps injury can manifest as either a partial or complete rupture of the tendon or as an avulsion fracture of the superior pole of the patella, where the quadriceps inserts.

Injury usually occurs due to rapid contraction of the muscle while the knee is flexed.

Ultrasound is a useful imaging modality for assessing these patients, and its quicker exam time, cost-effectiveness, and lack of contraindications are advantages of ultrasound compared to MRI. Ultrasound can assess the extent of tendon involvement (partial vs complete rupture) and for the presence of an avulsion fracture.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 93

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