Bidirectional Tendon Strip: A Rectus Femoris Graft Harvesting Technique for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

ABSTRACT: In recent years, alternative graft options for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have gained attention, with the quadriceps tendon and rectus femoris (RF) favored for their biomechanical robustness and biological integration potential. However, traditional retrograde techniques harvesting from the patellar insertion pose technical challenges. These include poor visualization, tight overlying soft tissues and condensation of the quadriceps tendons at the suprapatellar region, and increased risk of capsular breach and donor-site morbidity. We describe the bidirectional tendon strip technique, in which retrograde harvesting is initiated 8 cm proximal to the superior pole of the patella with an open stripper. This point allows for consistent identification of tendon width and dep

SUBMITTER: Lee JY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12800986 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature