Associated Reconstruction of Anterior Cruciate and Anterolateral Ligaments With Single Asymmetric Hamstring Tendons Graft

Abstract

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a common disease that accounts for 250,000 cases/year in the United States. The anterolateral ligament (ALL) has been suggested to be an important restraint for rotational instability, and its reconstruction provides a reinforcement to the ACL reconstruction in this aspect, especially in high-demand athletes and in knees with high-grade pivot shift. Different techniques for associated ACL and ALL reconstruction have been described, but the ideal technique remains unclear. Several facts of these techniques may entail a concern to the surgeon, such as the need for several grafts or several bone tunnels. A technique for associated ACL and ALL is presented, using a single hamstring tendons graft, which is prepared asymmetrically, leaving one-third of the length with single diameter and two-thirds with double diameter. A single femoral tunnel is created, using a screw for fixation and differentiation of the grafts. A suspension device is used for tibial fixation, allowing for length adjustment according to the graft's length. The objective of this Technical Note is to provide the orthopaedic surgeon with a resource for ACL and ALL reconstruction even with relatively short grafts, saving bone stock and avoiding the need for allografts.