Proximal Hamstring Avulsions, from Diagnosis to Treatment: A Review Regarding a Clinical Case

Abstract

Proximal hamstring avulsion is a rare injury that can produce permanent functional alterations, in addition to a high risk of retear (in up to 30% of the cases). It usually occurs in athletes who perform rapid accelerations or require ballistic movements during their training, although they also occur in a more sedentary population due to low-energy mechanisms. The most frequent mechanism of injury is an eccentric contraction of the proximal hamstrings when trying to resist a fall, with the hip in flexion and the knee in extension.

Numerous clinical signs are described at the physical examination. Regarding its study, although conventional radiography and ultrasound are very useful, magnetic resonance is recognized as the gold standard for its precise diagnosis.

Treatment will depend on the type of patient and their expectations, although in recent years the surgical option has been increasingly considered in cases of complete avulsion of the hamstrings associated with retraction.

We herein present a review of the topic in relation to a clinical case that was resolved surgically, and we discuss the basic concepts, clinical presentation, complementary images, and treatment options that are currently available.

Keywords

avulsion lesions - proximal hamstring - surgical treatment of proximal hamstring avulsions - hamstring rehabilitation

Publication History

Received: 08 June 2022

Accepted: 07 March 2023

Article published online:
18 May 2023

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