ACL Reconstruction — Quadriceps Tendon Graft (Adult)

UW Health Sports Medicine · UW Health Sports Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Physician Group

Weight-Bearing

PWB progressing to WBAT; brace unlocked within 1 wk for ambulation; FWB by Phase II

Key Restrictions

QTG at higher risk for flexion loss and scar tissue — early mobility critical; brace unlocked within 1 wk; Thomas test position + soft tissue work for ROM; LET may be added; no impact until Biodex <30% and Y balance >95%; ROOT repair: TDWB locked brace x6 wks

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (0-4 wks: PWB to WBAT, early ROM priority) -> Phase II (4-6 wks+: normalize gait, CKC) -> Phase III (8-12 wks+: progressive strength, RFD, no impact) -> Phase IV/V (cutting/pivoting, RTS at 9+ months)

Notes

QTG: prioritize early ROM/mobility more than other grafts to prevent stiffness and scar tissue; LET may be added; NMES and BFR included; Spectrum class; surgeon-specific meniscal precautions (Baer/Cotter/Day/Smith/Spiker vs. Scerpella/Sheean); RTS at 9+ months; UW Health Sports Medicine, Madison WI

Surgeon / Author

UW Health Sports Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Physician Group