Bilateral Quadriceps Tendon Rupture Complicated by Bilateral Postoperative Septic Arthritis: A Case Report

Source: PubMed Central Open Access, NCBI / U.S. National Library of Medicine

Quadriceps tendon rupture (QTR) is a rare injury, largely due to the tendon’s ability to withstand substantial tensile forces under normal physiological conditions. When it occurs, it is typically associated with systemic risk factors such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, or prolonged corticosteroid use. QTR results in significant functional impairment, and prompt surgical repair is essential to restore mobility. Septic arthritis is an uncommon postoperative complication that typically affects a single joint and can rapidly destroy articular cartilage if not identified and treated early. We present a rare case of bilateral QTR complicated by bilateral septic arthritis following surgical repair, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and aggressive management of surgical site infections to prevent permanent joint damage and prolonged disability.