Conservative management of an isolated near-complete distal biceps femoris tendon rupture in an elite football player.

Authors

Silke Bijnens, Peter Wildiers, Kristin Suetens, Brahim Hacene

Published in

BMJ case reports. Volume 19. Issue 8. Aug 25, 2026. Epub Aug 25, 2026.

Abstract

This case report presents an adolescent elite football player who sustained an isolated, near-complete rupture of both the long and short heads of the distal biceps femoris tendon, with approximately 20 mm tendon retraction and no associated bony avulsion or posterolateral knee injury. The injury occurred during a forceful cross-kick and was initially challenging to characterise because of conflicting ultrasound and MRI findings. Given the preserved clinical function, limited retraction and evidence of residual tendon continuity, the medical team opted for conservative management, without bracing or surgery. The athlete completed a structured criterion-based rehabilitation programme with close clinical, imaging and load monitoring. Progressive tendon healing was demonstrated on serial MRI, and the player achieved full return to play within 22 weeks. This case highlights that non-operative management of high-grade distal biceps femoris tendon ruptures may represent a feasible alternative to surgery in carefully selected athletes.

PMID:
42642099
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 26 Aug 2026.

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