The “Empty Merchant Sign” in acute patellar tendon ruptures

Mirzayan, Raffy; Hill, Patrick S.; Batech, Michael; Suh, Brian D.; Dewitt, David O.; Heckmann, Nathanael

doi:10.1016/j.clinimag.2020.09.015

Cited by 1 publication

(2 citation statements)

References 14 publications

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“…The merchant view can also reveal a bare appearing trochlear groove, or "Empty Merchant Sign", which has a higher reported specificity and positive predictive value than lateral radiographs (Figure 3). 23 High-resolution ultrasonography can be used to examine both partial and complete patellar tendon injuries. 1 With an acute rupture, sagittal images display a confluent area of hypoechogenicity along the hyperechoic patellar tendon.…”

Section: Diagnosis and Radiological Workupmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Acute Patellar Tendon Ruptures: An Update on Management

Brinkman,

Reeson,

Chhabra

2024

JAAOS Glob Res Rev

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Patellar tendon ruptures can be debilitating injuries. When incomplete, partial tears can be managed nonsurgically with immobilization and progressive rehabilitation. Although complete ruptures remain a relatively uncommon injury, they portend a high level of morbidity. Ruptures typically result from an acute mechanical overload to the extensor mechanism, such as with forced quadriceps contraction and knee flexion. However, chronically degenerated tendons are also predisposed to failure from low-energy injuries. Diagnosis can often be made clinically with recognition of a palpable defect to the tendon, localized patellar tendon tenderness, and inability to actively extend the knee. Diagnosis and surgical planning can be established with radiograph, ultrasonography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical repair is the mainstay of treatment, and there have been many recent advances in repair technique, optimal reconstruction strategies, and supplemental fixation. Time to surgery for complete tears remains the most important prognosticator for success. Direct primary repair can be completed with transosseous tunnels, suture anchor repair, or end-to-end repair. Tendon reconstruction can be achieved with or without mechanical or biologic augments. Rehabilitation programs vary in specifics, but return to sport can be expected by 6 months postoperatively.

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Section: Diagnosis and Radiological Workupmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The merchant view can also reveal a bare appearing trochlear groove, or “Empty Merchant Sign”, which has a higher reported specificity and positive predictive value than lateral radiographs (Figure 3 ). 23 …”

Section: Diagnosis and Radiological Workupmentioning

confidence: 99%