Computer-navigation assistance in arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament

Abstract

Objective To compare traditional arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the arthroscopic ACL reconstruction assisted by fluoroscopy-based navigation system in accuracy and reproducibility of the tunnel placement. Methods Fluoroscopy-based navigation system was used in 40 cases of arthroscopic ACL reconstruction from December 2005 to March 2006. Another 40 cases of traditional arthroscopic ACL reconstruction performed between June 2005 and March 2006 were used as control. The positions of the femoral and tibial tunnels were measured on their radiograms and compared statistically. Results The femoral tunnel position measurements averaged 62. 3%±5. 6% (52% - 73% ) in navigation-assisted ACL reconstruction, and 56. 6%±7. 3% (46% - 77% ) in the traditional arthroscopic operation. The tibial tunnel position measurements averaged 45.4%±3. 8% (37%-53% ) in the navigation-assisted ACL reconstruction, and 41. 1%±6. 0% (25% - 54% ) in the traditional arthroscopic operation. The differences were statistically significant ( P 0. 05). The mean operative duration for navigation-assisted ACL reconstruction was 20 minutes longer than that for traditional arthroscopic operation. Conclusion Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction assisted by fluoroscopy-based navigation system can improve the accuracy and reproducibility of the tunnel placement.