Patellar Tendon Rupture

In a partial patellar tendon rupture, only a portion of the tendon is torn, leaving some attachment intact. This type of injury may cause pain, swelling, and limited knee function, but individuals may still be able to bear weight and perform some activities. Partial tears can sometimes progress to complete ruptures if left untreated or with continued stress on the tendon.

A complete patellar tendon rupture occurs when the tendon is completely torn, separating the patella from the tibia. This is a severe injury that typically causes significant pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. Individuals with a complete rupture are often unable to bear weight on the affected leg and may have difficulty straightening or bending the knee.

Acute traumatic patellar tendon ruptures typically occur suddenly during activities that involve explosive jumping, landing, or direct trauma to the knee. These injuries are often associated with a forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle while the knee is bent, leading to excessive tension on the tendon and subsequent rupture. Acute traumatic ruptures may result in a complete tear of the tendon and require immediate medical attention.

Chronic degenerative patellar tendon ruptures develop gradually over time due to repetitive stress, degenerative changes, or underlying tendon pathology. These injuries are more common in individuals with chronic tendinopathy (tendon degeneration) or pre-existing conditions such as patellar tendinosis (also known as jumper's knee). Chronic degenerative ruptures may present with chronic knee pain, weakness, and functional limitations before progressing to a complete tear.