Reconstruction of posterolateral bundle in partially torn anterior cruciate ligament using hamstring tendons

Abstract

Purpose Partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a frequent injury. Controversy as regards reconstruction of partially torn ACL is still present. We prospectively evaluated clinical outcome of patients after reconstruction of partially torn ACL that involves posterolateral (PL) bundle with hamstring tendons.Methods and results Between August 2008 and August 2011, 20 (PL) bundle tears of ACL-deficient knees of 20 active athletic patients were evaluated and reconstructed with hamstring tendons. There were 17 male and three female patients; the mean age of the patients was 29 years (range: 21–37 years). Assessment was carried out using Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), and KT-1000. Cases were subjected to scoring at 6 months postoperatively with improved outcome using Lysholm score from 65.5 (range: 30–89) to 91 (range: 81–100). A clear difference in IKDC scoring was found as regards knee stability testing. Side-to-side laxity using KT-1000 measurement improved from 3 mm preoperatively to 1 mm postoperatively.Conclusion Reconstruction of PL bundle of partially torn ACL provides a logical way to augment knee stability.