Beyond the quadriceps tendon: The rectus femoris as a distinct autograft for knee ligament reconstruction-A narrative review.

PURPOSE: This narrative review synthesises the anatomical, biomechanical, and clinical evidence on the rectus femoris tendon as an autograft for knee ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar up to June 2026 with no language restrictions. A total of 35 articles describing the rectus femoris tendon as a graft for knee ligament reconstruction were included.

RESULTS

Cadaveric studies demonstrated consistent morphometric dimensions, with a mean tendon length of approximately 30 cm and graft diameters ranging from 8 to 11 mm. Biomechanical testing across four independent cadaveric studies showed that the doubled rectus femoris provides load-to-failure within the range of established anterior cruciate ligament grafts. Multiple harvesting techniques have been described, using the identification of a fat layer between the rectus femoris and the intermediate layer as the primary landmark. The graft has been applied to isolated anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, combined anterior cruciate ligament and anterolateral or anteromedial ligament reinforcement, posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and revision surgery. Early clinical series reported functional outcomes comparable to hamstring tendon autografts, with low donor-site morbidity. Isokinetic evaluation showed no difference in extensor performance between rectus femoris and hamstring tendon groups at six months. Intraoperative complications included capsular violations and premature graft amputations, concentrated in initial cases and without clinical repercussions. The current clinical evidence is limited to level III and IV studies, with a maximum mean follow-up of approximately 3.5 years in revision settings and 3 years in primary reconstruction, demonstrating improvement in patient-reported outcomes and knee stability.

CONCLUSION

The rectus femoris tendon is a viable autograft for knee ligament reconstruction, with consistent anatomy, adequate biomechanical properties, and early clinical results comparable to hamstring tendon autografts. It should be considered in individualised graft selection.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V.