Ruptured vastus lateralis tendon of the right knee.
The ruptured vastus lateralis tendon was repaired surgically.
His right knee was protected with a hinged knee brace for the following 6 weeks. He was allowed partial weight bearing ambulation with crutches for 3 weeks followed by full weight bearing ambulation thereafter. The hinged brace allowed 0 – 30 degrees of knee flexion for the initial 2 weeks and it was gradually increased to full flexion over the following first 6 weeks.
This is his healed surgical scar. The contour of his muscle is restored.
He was referred to the physiotherapist to strengthen his right thigh muscles. He was able to do single leg stand and lunges when the strength of his right thigh muscles improved. Isolated vastus lateralis tendon ruptures are rare but a high degree of suspicion and low tolerance to investigate with MRI or ultrasound scans will help prevent missed diagnoses of such injuries.