Comparative functional outcome study of superficial quadriceps tendon versus hamstring tendon autograft in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft and a hamstring tendon. Functional outcomes are measured using the Tegner Lysholm (TL) score and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, which provide a comprehensive evaluation of knee function and patient recovery. Materials and Methods: Patients aged 18 and above with Grade 3 anterior tibial translation were included in the study. Radiological confirmation was obtained through magnetic resonance imaging to support the diagnosis. Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction was then performed using a quadriceps tendon or hamstring autograft. Postoperatively, all patients were monitored, and functional knee assessment scores were recorded and compared with pre-operative values. Postoperatively, radiographs were done at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Results: In our study, 80 patients underwent the procedure. Both the quadriceps and hamstring groups that underwent arthroscopic primary ACL reconstruction have similar outcomes in terms of IKDC and TL functional scores, with both having a P-value greater than 0.05. Conclusion: The quadriceps tendon autograft and the hamstring tendon autograft are equally effective for providing good functional scores to the knee joint.