Outcomes after quadriceps tendon repair in patients over 80 years of age.

BACKGROUND

Quadriceps tendon (QT) ruptures are uncommon and mostly occur in those who are 50-60 years of age. Timely surgical repair can result in a good functional outcome, however, little is known about the outcome in the older patient.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all QT ruptures between 2009 and 2014 was conducted. Patients over the age of 80 were included. Those with penetrating trauma or partial ruptures were excluded. A chart review was undertaken to gather demographic and operative details. The patients were contacted by phone or by mail to have Lysholm and Rougraff scores completed.

RESULTS

Of the 32 QT ruptures identified, 6 (19%) patients were eligible for inclusion in our study. They were predominantly (83%) males with a mean age of 81.38 years. The mean follow up was 54 months. The mean Lysholm score at last follow up was 84.8/100, which falls within the range of a good outcome. The mean Rougraff score was 21.3/25, which is an excellent outcome. All patients felt they were close to their premorbid level of mobility.

CONCLUSION

Good outcomes can be expected with QT repair in older patients, resulting in restoration of the pre-injury level of mobility. Level of evidence: Level V case series.