Mini-invasive Quadriceps-plasty for Severe Flexion-Impeding Knee Stiffness

Severe flexion-impeding knee stiffness is a common clinical condition that challenges orthopaedic surgeons. A mini-invasive and effective release technique to address this special condition is still being pursued. We describe a mini-invasive quadriceps-plasty that is performed through a small incision on the supralateral side of the knee and includes release of the retinaculum and patellofemoral joint, re-creation of the suprapatellar pouch and medial and lateral gutters, overlapping Z-plasty of the rectus femoris and vastus intermedius, and transfer of the vastus lateralis. Our clinical results indicate that this technique is safe and effective. We present a detailed description with video illustration of this technique that is beneficial for its application.