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.