The Use of a Simple Vaginal Speculum to Harvest Quadriceps Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Avoid any Potential Pitfalls during Harvesting Procedure: A technical note

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with quadriceps tendon autograft has gained popularity in recent years, while many harvesting techniques were described with the use of different harvesting systems available on the market. There are multiple techniques varying from transverse to longitudinal skin incision, from open to minimally invasive approach. Despite the preferred technique, it seems that there is a reported learning curve as with the majority of surgical procedures. The present technical note makes an effort to present a straightforward harvesting method of quadriceps tendon autograft with the use of a simple vaginal speculum and direct visualization with the scope. Our technique is minimally invasive, easily reproducible from every surgeon despite the level of experience, with short learning curve, requiring no additional cost or technical support during the procedure, while creating a stable working space with freedom of manipulation of the surgical instruments and arthroscope.

Keywords: Anterior Cruciate Ligament; Knee; Arthroscopic Surgery; Quadriceps Muscle; Autografting.