Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Using a Flexible Reaming System

Abstract

The combination of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction represents a therapeutic modality that exhibits superior clinical efficacy for certain risk groups when compared with isolated ACL reconstruction. This approach is progressively gaining broader applicability owing to its inherent prospective advantages. Despite the absence of a universally acknowledged gold-standard surgical technique, several methods have been delineated for its implementation. Typically, conventional practice involves the creation of distinct individual tunnels in the femur, followed by graft fixation using interference screws. However, the conventional steps in the technique are not without potential drawbacks. These include tunnel convergence, screw migration, screw irritation, and the risk of lateral collateral ligament injury. The manifestation of such unfavorable outcomes can necessitate a subsequent surgical intervention for effective management. Consequently, adopting a single socket-shaped tunnel strategy for concurrent reconstruction of the ACL and ALL, coupled with femoral fixation using an adjustable-loop button facilitated by a flexible reaming system, presents potential advantages. This alternative approach can mitigate the aforementioned risks by minimizing morbidity and preserving bone stock. The technique is feasible and reproducible, offering a pragmatic avenue for optimizing clinical outcomes in combined ACL and ALL reconstruction.