Patellar tendon graft harvesting using horizontal incisions for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Abstract

Autograft endoscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction traditionally has been performed via standard arthroscopy portals and a single longitudinal anterior incision. This vertical incision is used for harvesting the central third of the patellar tendon with patellar and tibial bone blocks. From 1992 to 1995, more than 400 cases have been done with a new technique of graft procurement. This new method employs two transverse incisions that are more cosmetic and are less likely to become a source of pain or flexion limitation.