Tear of the Proximal Patellar Tendon (tendinosis)

by Lee Sample
(Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)

MRI of the left knee without gadolinium:

Findings: The medial and lateral meniscus, anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments are unremarkable in appearance.

There is abnormal thickening of the proximal patellar tendon adjacent to the inferior pole of the patella. This demonstrates generalized increased proton density signal intensity. There is one focal area within this region which demonstrates linear increased T2 signal intensity measuring 3.2mm. There is edema demonstrated within the anterior-superior aspect of Hoffa's fat pad as well as along the anterior aspect of the proximal patellar tendon.

The distal quadriceps tendon is unremarkable.

There is no bone marrow edema.

There is no join effusions or Barker's cyst.

IMPRESSION: Patellar tendinosis. Query tiny intrasubstance tear of the proximal patellar tendon. Edema surrounding the tendon.

I am an athlete/extreme athlete. I play hockey/soccer & skateboard/snowboard/wakeboard. I love to run and bike. I play participate in all athletic activities. Am I able to continue to be active?