Operative Management of a Chronic Proximal Rectus Femoris Muscle Tear in a Collegiate Athlete: A Case Report.

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic tears of the rectus femoris (RF) are common injuries in sports involving sprinting and jumping; however, there is limited data on management and surgical indications. This holds particularly true with severe and recurrent injuries. Conservative treatment with rest and physical therapy (PT) or surgical management with excision versus repair are current options. We present a case of a chronic tear of the RF that failed extensive conservative management and subsequently underwent pseudotumor excision and direct tendon-to-tendon repair with successful return to sport.

Case report: This case report describes a chronic injury to the indirect head of the RF in a 21-year-old softball player. The insidious onset was characterized by pain, edema, intramuscular hematoma, and decreased range of motion. The patient failed extensive conservative treatment, including 12 months of medication, PT, and activity modification. Surgical intervention and rehabilitation enabled the athlete to return to collegiate sport at the Division I level.

Conclusion: Surgical debridement with primary tendon-to-tendon repair of a chronic tear of the RF that fails conservative treatment may allow a quick return to sport at pre-injury level.