Knee replacement surgery has come a long way in recent years, and today’s patients have more options than ever when it comes to how the surgery is performed. One growing innovation is the quadriceps-sparing approach, a technique designed to preserve more muscle and potentially speed up recovery. But how does it differ from traditional knee replacement, and is it right for you? Let’s break it down.
Traditional Knee Replacement: A Proven Approach
In a traditional total knee replacement (TKR), the surgeon makes a vertical incision down the front of the knee and cuts through part of the quadriceps tendon—the large tendon connecting your thigh muscle to the kneecap—to access the joint. This gives the surgeon a clear view of the knee, making it easier to properly align the implants.
While highly effective and widely practiced, this method involves more disruption to the surrounding muscle and tissue. That can lead to increased pain in the early recovery period, temporary muscle weakness, and a longer rehabilitation timeline—though long-term outcomes are typically very good.
What makes the Quadriceps-Sparing Knee Replacement different
The quadriceps-sparing or quad-sparing technique takes a less invasive route. Instead of cutting through the quadriceps tendon, the surgeon works around or underneath it—often through a smaller incision and using specialized instruments.
By preserving the quadriceps muscle and tendon, this technique may reduce soft tissue trauma, which can result in:
- Less post-operative discomfort
- Faster recovery of strength and mobility
- Earlier return to walking and physical therapy
- Shorter hospital stays (or same-day discharge in some cases)
Patients who undergo quad-sparing knee replacement often report feeling more stable and mobile in the early days after surgery, although long-term outcomes are generally comparable to traditional techniques.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Not every patient is a candidate for quadriceps-sparing surgery. Ideal candidates typically have:
- A healthy body weight
- Minimal deformity in the knee
- Good preoperative mobility and strength
- No history of extensive prior knee surgeries
A consultation with an experienced orthopedic surgeon is essential to determine the best approach for your unique anatomy, condition, and goals.
Choosing the Right Technique for You
Both quadriceps-sparing and traditional knee replacements have their place in modern orthopedics. The key is matching the technique to the patient. At our orthopedic practice, we offer a range of surgical options tailored to your lifestyle and recovery expectations.
AUTHOR: Dr. Christopher W. Palmer, DO, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon at Signature Medical Group in Missouri, specializing in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement. Dr. Palmer has specialized training in the Mako SmartRobotics ™ System with a focus on compassionate, individualized patient care.
