Glossary
Quadriceps tendon graft
Quick answer
A quadriceps tendon graft is a strip of the thick tendon just above the kneecap, taken with or without a small bone block, and used to rebuild the ACL or other ligaments. It offers a large, robust graft, says Doha knee surgeon Dr. Pablo Gelber, who operates at Aman Hospital.
What it is
The quadriceps tendon joins the large front thigh muscle to the top of the kneecap. A strip of its central part is taken through a short incision above the kneecap, often with a minimally invasive technique. It can be harvested as soft tissue only or with a small piece of kneecap bone.
Because the tendon is thick, the graft size is predictable, which helps in revision surgery and in patients with small hamstring tendons.
Why it matters for patients
Studies suggest results similar to the other main grafts, with less kneeling pain than a patellar tendon graft in many patients and no effect on hamstring strength. Its use has grown worldwide in recent years.
The quadriceps can be slow to regain strength afterwards, so rehabilitation places particular emphasis on activating and building that muscle. Swelling above the kneecap in the first weeks is common.
When it is chosen
It is considered for primary ACL reconstruction, revision ACL surgery, some paediatric reconstructions and when other grafts have already been used. The right option depends on your knee, previous operations, sport and daily demands, and is agreed after examination.
Frequently asked questions
Will taking part of the quadriceps tendon weaken my kick?
Thigh strength is lower at first but usually returns with structured rehabilitation. Return to kicking and sprinting is timed by strength testing rather than by the calendar alone.
Is the quadriceps tendon graft new?
It has been used for decades, but improvements in harvesting techniques have made it much more widely used in recent years.
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