A Rare Case of Intra-Articular Displacement of EndoButton Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Abstract

The EndoButton is a commonly used device for femoral fixation of anterior cruciate ligament grafts. Complications from its usage remain rare. Incorrect femoral tunnel placement may increase the risk of intra-articular displacement of the EndoButton. We present a case of anterior femoral tunnel placement resulting in intra-articular displacement of the EndoButton after failure. A 24-year-old man presented to us after failure of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction performed 3 years prior. Radiographs revealed an intra-articular displacement of the EndoButton. Intraoperatively, it was noted that the femoral tunnel exit was within the suprapatellar pouch, with the displaced EndoButton lodged between the posterior aspect of the lateral tibial plateau and the capsule. Intra-articular displacement of the EndoButton is a rare complication and has only been reported twice in the literature. Anterior placement of the femoral tunnel may predispose patients to this complication and it is recommended to check the EndoButton position intraoperatively to avoid such a complication, especially for the unexperienced surgeon.