Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon: A comparative study

Objective: The goal of this study was to compare the results of knee anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with the use of patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon. Methodology: In this study 30 patients with rupture of anterior cruciate ligament of knee were compared in two 15-person group with the use of patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon. After precise rehabilitation program for six month, patients were compared according to scoring system. Variables of this system included: Knee extension, knee flexion, anterior drawer test, quadriceps muscle weakness, patellofemoral symptoms, infrapatellar symptoms, effusion, giving way symptoms, and radiographic changes of degenerative arthritis. Each variable was given scores (0,5.10) depending to symptoms, and sum of scores was recorded and compared for each person in each group. Results: The use of quadriceps tendon had lesser infrapatellar symptoms as compared with patellar tendon (p<0.04). This difference was significant. Average of total score for group PT was 78.6 and group QT was 81; both of them were in the excellent range and there was no significant difference between these two groups. Conclusions: In reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament of knee, using quadriceps tendon was more appropriate for conditions in which patients require longtime kneeling (knee flexion) and will result in patient's earlier return to activity and more satisfaction.