Patellar Tendon Graft Harvest: The Bone Transfer Technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft is a common choice for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).
• Postoperative anterior knee pain is a significant concern following ACLR due to bony defects at the graft harvest site.
• Anatomical bone grafting techniques can mitigate harvest-site morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a modified BPTB autograft harvest technique.
• To address and reduce postoperative anterior knee pain associated with bony defects.
• To optimize graft site healing and restoration of native anatomy.

Main Methods:

• A 4-cm vertical anteromedial proximal tibial incision is utilized.
• The mid-third of the patellar tendon is harvested with bone blocks.
• Anatomical bone grafting of the patellar and tibial defects is performed using harvested bone.
• The tibial tunnel is created with a coring reamer, yielding a bone cylinder for tibial tuberosity defect grafting.

Main Results:

• The described technique aims to reduce postoperative anterior knee pain.
• Utilizing autologous bone grafts for defect reconstruction promotes faster healing.
• The method restores anatomical integrity at the bone graft harvest sites.

Conclusions:

• This modified BPTB harvest technique effectively addresses anterior knee pain concerns.
• Anatomical bone grafting of harvest site defects is crucial for patient outcomes.
• The technique promotes faster healing and restores native anatomy, enhancing recovery after ACLR.