The risk of chondral injury during the Rigidfix femoral fixation via the anteromedial portal to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the risk of chondral injury during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a double cross-pin femoral fixation device via the anteromedial portal in Chinese cadavers. Methods Nine specimens of the knee (6 left ones and 3 right ones) were taken from 5 male and 4 female conservative cadavers of Chinese adult. The average age of the cadavers were 34.8 (26 to 45)years old. Femoral tunnel drilling and cross-pin guide insertion were performed using the Rigidfix Cross Pin device through the anteromedial portal. The ACL reconstructions were simulated at 3 entrance points of the cross-pin (0°, 45° and 90° relative to the horizontal plane) . The risks of chondral injury were statistically analyzed when the cross-pin entrance point was at the 3 different positions relative to the femoral chondral surface. Results The incidence of chondral injury was 100% when the Rigidfix cross-pin guide was at 90° relative to the horizontal plane. When the Rigidfix cross-pin guide was at 45° and 0° the incidences of chondral injury were 66. 7% and 22. 2% respectively. Conclusion Since there is always a risk of chondral injury when the Rigidfix cross-pin device is used to reconstruct ACL via the anteromedial portal, the anteromedial portal is not recommended for the ACL reconstruction using Rigidfix femoral fixation. Key words: Anterior cruciate ligament; Cartilage, articular; Anteromedial portal