Assessment of Knee Tendon Rupture

Initial Clinical Assessment

A detailed physical examination with at least two specific tests is essential for diagnosing knee tendon ruptures, including assessment for palpable gaps, decreased strength, and specific functional tests depending on the tendon involved, as recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1
Note any inability to bear weight, which is a key clinical indicator of severe injury, according to the American College of Radiology 2, 3

Initial evaluation should include anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the affected knee, as recommended by the American College of Radiology 2, 3
Radiographs should be the initial imaging modality for patients with focal tenderness and/or inability to bear weight, according to the American College of Radiology 2

Excessive swelling and pain can limit examination up to 48 hours after injury, potentially masking the diagnosis, as noted by the American Academy of Family Physicians 4
Partial tears may be difficult to distinguish from complete ruptures in the acute setting, making re-examination after 3-5 days important, as recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians 4
Ultrasound can be helpful but has limited evidence supporting routine use, as stated by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1