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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
04:03
Harvesting of Peroneus Longus Tendon Autograft
Published on: September 2, 2025
Minimally invasive quadriceps tendon harvest
Arturo Almazán Díaz1, Francisco Cruz López, Francisco-Xavier Pérez Jiménez
1Department of Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine, National Rehabilitation Institute, Mexico City, Mexico. arturo@mirodilla.com
Summary
This study presents a minimally invasive subcutaneous technique for harvesting quadriceps tendon (QT) grafts. This safe and reproducible method yields high-quality grafts for ligament reconstruction, offering excellent cosmetic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Quadriceps tendon (QT) is increasingly utilized as a graft source in ligament surgery.
- Existing harvesting techniques may have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel subcutaneous technique for harvesting QT grafts.
- To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and reproducibility of this technique.
Main Methods:
- Development of specialized closed tendon strippers (10- and 11-mm inner diameter).
- A minimally invasive approach involving a small patellar incision and graft dissection within the thigh.
- Graft retrieval via stab incision or by manipulating the stripper.
Main Results:
- The technique was successfully refined in cadaveric specimens.
- Used in 18 primary posterior cruciate ligament reconstructions with no reported complications.
- Consistently provided good-quality grafts with excellent cosmetic results.
Conclusions:
- The described subcutaneous QT harvesting technique is safe, effective, and easily reproducible.
- Offers a minimally invasive alternative for obtaining high-quality grafts for ligament reconstruction.
- Demonstrates excellent cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.
