Anterior Knee Surgical Approaches

Numerous surgical approaches to the anterior aspect of the knee joint have been described in the literature. A successful surgery begins with effective preoperative planning, including the surgical incision and exposure of the joint. The anteromedial exposure to the knee is commonly used to gain access to the knee; however, other approaches (e.g., anterolateral, subvastus, midvastus, and suprapatellar) may be used depending on the surgical procedure. Extensile approaches such as the quadriceps snip, V-Y turndown, and tibial tubercle osteotomy may be useful for revision procedures, especially with extensive scar adhesions after standard soft tissue releases. With prudent planning and careful approach selection, the anterior knee can be safely and efficiently exposed.