The Quadriceps Contusion:
Aka Charley horse/cork/dead leg - are common in contact sports. Most athletes recover & RTP w/o consequences. But is the contusion the only concern? We take a look at 2 other significant conditions the medical team is on the lookout for.
(1/7)

(2/7). But 1st, a look at the quad contusion:
* Due to blunt impact trauma.
* Are either intramuscular (A) or intermuscular (B).
* Can be evaluated by MRI or ultrasound.
* Treatment conservative.

(3/7).
A. Intramuscular: Bleeding w/in muscle. Becomes trapped w/in muscle sheath. Results in restricted motion/flexibility & is typically more painful. Tends to be longer recovery.
B. intermuscular: Bleeding around the muscle & can escape into surrounding tissue. Faster recovery

(4/7). Acute Compartment Syndrome:
* The most serious complication of a quad contusion.
* Is a surgical emergency.
* Result of excessive swelling/blood w/in the compartment that compresses & causes injury to muscles/nerves/vessels
* Can be assoc w/ or w/o assoc fracture.
(Cont)

(5/7). Compartment Syndrome (continued):
* Most commonly affects lower leg; Can affect thigh
* Also seen in upper extremity, foot, hand, glutes, abdomen.
* Treatment is emergent surgery (fasciotomy) to decompress compartment & relieve pressure.

(6/7). Myositis Ossificans:
* Formation of bone-like tissue in the muscle after blunt trauma &/or repeated injury.
* Can occur in up to 18-20% of quad contusions; usually develop w/in 2-4 wks after trauma.
* Can be painful & limit motion.
(Continued)

(7/7). Myositis Ossificans (continued):
* Imaging studies can help differentiate between cancerous tumors in thigh
* Treatment mostly conservative. Surgery rarely indicated (usually performed 6-12 mths after injury).
* Reoccurrence possible