Proprioceptive and Knee Joint Kinematics for Comparison of Remnant Preserved versus Non-remnant Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Achilles Allograft

Abstract

The purpose of remnant preserving technique in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is to preserve mechanoreceptor and accelerate revascularization. In this study, we compared a group who underwent remnant preserving technique using Achilles tendon allograft with the other group of conventional ACL reconstruction in terms of proprioception, kinematic analysis, knee strength test and dynamic postural stability. Twenty-four patients were followed up for longer than 12 months after ACL reconstruction. They were separated into two groups; remnant preserving group (n=12) and non-remnant group (n=12). Proprioception test was conducted through joint position sense (JPS) and threshold to detection of passive motion. The remnant preserving group showed significantly less difference from the normal side than the non-remnant group. In kinematic analysis, there was statistically significant difference in peak flexion angle during the swing phase. However the 60° JPS, knee strength test, performance capacity test and dynamic postural stability did not showed the significant difference. Remnant preserving technique of ACL reconstruction was meaningful in preserving proprioception and the result showed akin to the unaffected gait.