Harvesting the Quadriceps Tendon With a Minimally Invasive Approach

Abstract

Background: This article describes a standardized, minimally invasive approach for harvesting the quadriceps tendon through a 2 to 3 cm transverse skin incision, presenting it as a viable option. Indications: This procedure is indicated for patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, or lateral collateral ligament reconstruction surgery using soft tissue quadriceps grafts. Technique Description: A transverse incision is made on the anterior face of the knee, followed by a longitudinal incision of the central third of the rectus femoris. We perform the distal detachment of the patella of the same tendon. Then, the tendon is extracted using a closed stripper. The graft is prepared and folded on itself, resulting in a double graft. Results: Twenty patients, 16 male and 4 female with complete rupture of ACL, were submitted to an ACL reconstruction using the quadriceps soft tissue graft with minimally invasive harvesting technique. The results were satisfactory for all patients. All patients showed good evolution in the immediate and late postoperative period, with no cases of joint stiffness, wound dehiscence, and no infections. Discussion/Conclusion: We can conclude that harvesting the quadriceps tendon with a minimally invasive approach is a valid and reliable option for the treatment of ligament tears of the knee. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form.