Technique For Anatomic Reconstruction Research Articles

Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

Recurrent patellofemoral instability is a common disabling condition especially in young individuals. MPFL is the main stabilizer to lateral patellar displacement and its reconstruction will restore patellofemoral stability. Many techniques had been described to reconstruct MPFL with good results and few complications taking in consideration meticulous surgical technique and careful patient selection. We used hamstring autograft in a double bundle anatomic MPFL reconstruction technique with both ends of the graft fixed to patella through two blind tunnels by anchor and bioabsorbable interference screw fixing the graft through a blind tunnel in the femur at 30 degree flexion.

All-arthroscopic anatomical reconstruction of anterior talofibular ligament using semitendinosus autografts.

We introduced a new technique of all-arthroscopic anatomical anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction using semitendinosus autografts. From June 2012 to June 2013, 28 patients with chronic ATFL rupture underwent arthroscopic anatomic reconstruction of the ATFL. They were divided into the Broström group (n = 16) and reconstruction group (n = 12). The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and visual analogue score (VAS) was recorded before the operation, 12months after the operation and 30months after the operation. Physical examination and radiographs were performed in follow-ups. The patients had higher AOFAS score after the operation in both the Broström group and the reconstruction group. 12months after operation, the patients in the reconstruction group showed significantly higher AOFAS score and lower VAS score than those in the Broström group (P = 0.003 and 0.001, respectively), while the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant 30months later (P = 0.425 and 0.323, respectively). Contemporary numbness of the lateral dorsal part of the foot appeared in one (8.3%) patient in the reconstruction group and two (12.5%) patients in the Broström group, and the symptoms diminished after neurotrophic treatment. No other complications, including recurrent instability, were encountered. No donor-side morbidity such as infection or delayed wound healing was observed. The novel surgical technique enhanced post-operative rehabilitation by providing better ankle joint function than modified Broström procedure at 12months after operation, while the advantage was not statistically significant 30months later. The long-term outcome requires further investigation. The technique of all-arthroscopic anatomical ATFL reconstruction using semitendinosus autografts proved to be a viable option for ATFL injuries.

Remnant Tissue–Preserving Technique for Anatomical Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Preservation of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remnant tissue has attracted notice in ACL reconstruction. Remnant preservation has been expected to have several potential advantages to improve postoperative knee stability such as enhanced graft coverage, accelerated cell repopulation, and revascularization. Recently, we have developed a new remnant-preserving technique for anatomical double-bundle ACL reconstruction using the semitendinosus tendon. The anterior laxity values and the results of the pivot-shift test were significantly better in the remnant tissue–preserving procedure than in the remnant tissue–resecting procedure. The arthroscopic evaluation showed that the remnant-preserving procedure was significantly better than the remnant-resecting procedure concerning postoperative laceration or tear of the grafts as well as synovial and fibrous tissue coverage of the grafts. However, to establish the clinical use of remnant tissue preservation, further randomized clinical studies are needed to objectively examine the effects on rotatory stability and the long-term survival of graft function.

Outcome of the treatment of chronic isolated and combined posterolateral corner knee injuries with 2- to 6-year follow-up

Introduction:Injuries of the posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee are rare. They are difficult to diagnose and can cause severe disability. This study presents the 20- to 70-month clinical and radiological outcomes of the anatomical reconstruction technique of LaPrade et al. Materials and methods Twenty-one patients with chronic PLC injuries underwent anatomical PLC reconstruction. The anatomical locations of the popliteus tendon, fibular collateral ligament, and popliteofibular ligament were reconstructed using a 2-graft technique. The patients were evaluated subjectively with the Tegner, Lysholm, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee scores and objectively with the IKDC objective scores; additionally, varus stress radiographs were taken to evaluate knee stability.Results:Significant (p\\0.05) improvements were observed in the postoperative Lysholm, IKDC-s, and Tegner scores compared with preoperatively. The IKDC objective subscores (lateral joint opening at 20_______________of knee extension, external rotation at 30_______________and 90_______________, and the reverse pivot-shift test) had improved significantly at the time of the final 40.9 ± 13.7-month follow-up.Lateralcompartment opening on the varus stress radiographs had decreased significantly in the postoperative period. However, there was still a significant difference compared with the uninjured knee. There was no significant improvement in the IKDC-s, Lysholm, or Tegner scores between the nine patients with isolated PLC injuries and twelve with multiligament injuries.Conclusions:Significant improvement in the objective knee stability scores and clinical outcomes with anatomical reconstruction showed that this technique can be used to treat patients with chronic PLC injured knees. However, longer-term multicentre studies and studies with larger groups comparing multiple techniques are required to determine the best treatment method for PLC injuries.

The Fascia Lata Anterolateral Tenodesis Technique

A technique for anatomic reconstruction of the anterolateral complex addressing anterolateral rotatory instability both in primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and in revision cases is presented. The extra-articular reconstruction is performed with a pedicle strip of iliotibial tract, fixed on the anatomic origin and insertion points of the anterolateral ligament of the knee in a double-bundle V-shaped fashion.

Arthroscopic Iliac Crest Bone Block for Reconstruction of the Glenoid: A Fixation Technique Using an Adjustable-Length Loop Cortical Suspensory Fixation Device

Recurrent anterior shoulder instability with significant bone loss represents a surgical challenge. Anterior bone block procedures including variations of the Latarjet coracoid transfer have been used in this setting. Bone graft resorption with prominence of the metalwork is a serious concern, whereas the relative contribution of the dynamic sling effect of a Latarjet procedure is still controversial. We describe an arthroscopic technique for anatomic reconstruction of anterior glenoid bone defects using autologous iliac crest graft. This technique allows accurate placement of the bone block; fixation with 2 knotless TightRope devices (Arthrex, Naples, FL), avoiding the use of screws; and a final labral repair.

On the heterogeneity of the femoral enthesis of the human ACL: microscopic anatomy and clinical implications.

BackgroundMost ruptures of the native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and ACL graft occur at, or near, the femoral enthesis, with the posterolateral fibers of the native ligament being especially vulnerable during pivot landings. Characterizing the anatomy of the ACL femoral enthesis may help us explain injury patterns which, in turn, could help guide injury prevention efforts. It may also lead to improved anatomic reconstruction techniques given that the goal of such techniques is to replicate the knee’s normal anatomy. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the microscopic anatomy of the ACL femoral enthesis and determine whether regional differences exist.MethodsFifteen human ACL femoral entheses were histochemically processed and sectioned along the longitudinal axis of the ACL at 20, 40, 60, and 80 % of the width of the enthesis. Four thick sections (100 μm) per enthesis were prepared, stained, and digitized. From these sections, regional variations in the quantity of calcified and uncalcified fibrocartilage, the angle at which the ligament originates from the bone, and the shape profile of the tidemark were quantified.ResultsAt least 33 % more calcified fibrocartilage and 143 % more uncalcified fibrocartilage were found in the antero-inferior region, which corresponds to the inferior margin of the origin of the anteromedial ACL fibers, than all other regions (Ps < 0.05). In addition, the anteromedial fibers of the ACL originated from the femur at an angle six times greater than did its posterolateral fibers (P = 0.032). Finally, average entheseal tidemark profiles correlated bilaterally (Pearson’s r = 0.79; P = 0.036), the most common profile being convex with a single re-entrant.ConclusionsSystematic regional differences were found in fibrocartilage quantity and collagen fiber attachment angles. The marked differences may reflect differences in the loading history of the various regions of the ACL femoral enthesis. These differences, which could affect the potential for injury, should also be considered when developing new ACL reconstruction approaches.

Avaliação radiológica do posicionamento do túnel femoral na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior

ObjectiveTo evaluate the inclination and the length of the femoral tunnel in patients submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL) surgery by transtibial and anatomical techniques. MethodsThis is an analytical observational study in patients with ACL injury that underwent arthroscopic reconstruction through transtibial and anatomical surgical techniques. In the immediate postoperative period, computed tomography (CT) and anteroposterior (AP) view digital radiographs (X‐rays) were performed to evaluate the inclination and length of the femoral tunnel. ResultsForty‐two patients were analyzed: 27 underwent anatomical reconstruction and 15, transtibial reconstruction. The inclination angle and tunnel length by the transtibial technique are always greater than by the anatomical technique. The mean inclination angles were 59.75° (53.9 to 66.1°) in the X‐rays and 54.17° (43.5 to 62.3°) in CT for the transtibial technique, and 42.91° (29.3 to 57.4°) in the X‐rays and 39.10° (23.8 to 50.6°) in CT for the anatomical technique. Regarding the length of the femoral tunnel, the transtibial technique promotes longer tunnels: mean 55.7mm (40.0‐70.2mm) in the transtibial and 35.5mm (24.5–47mm) in the anatomical technique. No statistically significant correlation was observed between the length and the inclination of the tunnel, regardless of the technique used. Thus, these variables can be considered as independent. ConclusionThe anatomical reconstruction technique presented shorter femoral tunnels and lower angle of inclination than the transtibial technique. The CT showed smaller inclination angle than the X‐rays, regardless of the surgical technique.

Anatomic Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With a Hamstring Tendon Autograft and Fresh-Frozen Allograft: A Prospective, Randomized, and Controlled Study

To compare the clinical outcome of anatomic double-bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft versus fresh-frozen allograft. Between January 2010 and December 2011, in a prospective randomized study, we included 157 patients who were planned to receive anatomic DB ACL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft or fresh-frozen allograft. All surgeries were performed by the same senior surgeon with the DB reconstruction technique. The fixation of femoral side grafts was by means of an EndoButton, and the tibial side grafts were fixed with a bioabsorble interference screw augmented with a staple. The same rehabilitation protocol was applied to all the patients. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and at the follow-up points. Evaluations included detailed history, physical examination, radiograph, functional knee ligament testing, KT-2000 arthrometer testing, Harner's vertical jump and Daniel's one-leg hop tests, Lysholm score, Tegner score, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) standard evaluation form, and Cincinnati knee score. One hundred and twenty-one patients (Auto, 62; Allo, 59) fulfilled complete follow-up and got full clinical evaluations. The mean follow-up was 4.6years (4.0 to 5.5years) for both groups. No significant differences were found between the 2 groups according to the evaluations aforementioned except that patients in the Allo group had shorter operation time compared with the Auto group (P= .001). Fifty-three (85.5%) patients in the Auto group and 50 (84.7%) patients in the Allo group had a side-to-side difference of less than 3mm. Four (6.5%) patients in the Auto group and 4 (6.8%) patients in the Allo group had a side-to-side difference of more than 5mm. Fifty-nine (95.8%) patients in the Auto group and 55 (93.2%) patients in the Allo group were normal or nearly normal according to the overall IKDC. According to the subjective IKDC, the average scores were 90 and 89 points, respectively, for the Auto and Allo groups. The mean Lysholm and Tegner scores were 90 points and 7.9 points for the Auto group, respectively, and 89 points and 7.8 points for the Allo group, respectively. For the Cincinnati knee score, the average scores were 91 and 90 points, respectively, for the Auto and Allo groups. A total of 11.3% (7 of 62) of patients in the Auto group and 11.9% (7 of 59) of patients in the Allo group had an arthritic progression. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups at the final follow-up. With the anatomic DB ACL reconstruction technique, comparable objective and subjective clinical results can be achieved with the use of a fresh-frozen hamstring tendon allograft compared with an autograft. Level II, prospective randomized clinical trial.

Anatomic Posterolateral Corner Reconstruction

Posterolateral corner injuries represent a complex injury pattern, with damage to important coronal and rotatory stabilizers of the knee. These lesions commonly occur in association with other ligament injuries, making decisions regarding treatment challenging. Grade III posterolateral corner injuries result in significant instability and have poor outcomes when treated nonoperatively. As a result, reconstruction is advocated. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy is essential for surgical treatment of this pathology. The following technical note provides a diagnostic approach, postoperative management, and details of a technique for anatomic reconstruction of the 3 main static stabilizers of the posterolateral corner of the knee.

Modified Weaver-Dunn Procedure Versus The Use of Semitendinosus Autogenous Tendon Graft for Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction.

Background:The optimal operative method for acromioclavicular joint reconstruction remains controversial. The modified Weaver-Dunn method is one of the most popular methods. Anatomic reconstruction of coracoclavicular ligaments with autogenous tendon grafts, widely used in treating chronic acromioclavicular joint instability, reportedly diminishes pain, eliminates sequelae, and improves function as well as strength. Objective:To compare clinical and radiologic outcomes between a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure and an anatomic coracoclavicular ligaments reconstruction technique using autogenous semitendinosus tendon graft.Methods:Twenty patients (mean age, 39 years) with painful, chronic Rockwood type III acromioclavicular joint dislocations were subjected to surgical reconstruction. In ten patients, a modified Weaver-Dunn procedure was performed, in the other ten patients; autogenous semitendinosus tendon graft was used. The mean time between injury and the index procedure was 18 month (range from 9 – 28). Clinical evaluation was performed using the Oxford Shoulder Score and Nottingham Clavicle Score after a mean follow-up time of 27.8 months. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were compared.Results:In the Weaver-Dunn group the Oxford Shoulder Score improved from 25±4 to 40±2 points. While the Nottingham Clavicle Score increased from 48±7 to 84±11. In semitendinosus tendon graft group, the Oxford Shoulder Score improved from 25±3 points to 50±2 points and the Nottingham Clavicle Score from 48±8 points to 95±8, respectively.Conclusion:Acromioclavicular joint reconstruction using the semitendinosus tendon graft achieved better Oxford Shoulder Score and Nottingham Clavicle Score compared to the modified Weaver-Dunn procedure.

Percutaneous Ankle Reconstruction of Lateral Ligaments (Perc-Anti RoLL).

Summary Chronic ankle instability following ankle sprains causes pain and functional problems such as recurrent giving way. If non-operative treatments fail, then operative ankle stabilization may be required to improve pain and function. Operative options include both anatomic repair and reconstruction techniques. Anatomic repair techniques utilize pre-existing ligament remnants that are either reattached or tightened to improve stability of the ankle. If pre-existing ligament structures have been damaged beyond repair or are insufficient to allow repair, then it is appropriate to choose an anatomic reconstructive technique. These procedures have traditionally been performed using open techniques and have been successful in restoring function and decreasing pain. In 2005, an open anatomic reconstruction technique using a gracilis Y-graft and Inside-out technique was reported with good results. In the current paper we describe a Percutaneous Reconstruction of the Lateral Ligaments (Perc-Anti RoLL), which is a new minimally invasive surgical technique for anatomic reconstruction of the lateral ligaments of the ankle that utilizes the anatomic Y-graft and Inside-out technique. The Perc-Anti RoLL technique can be performed percutaneously using fluoroscopic guidance.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common procedure performed by orthopaedic surgeons, particularly in association with sports-related injuries. Over the past 10 years, a renewed interest in the native anatomy of the ACL has facilitated a progression from non-anatomic to more anatomic reconstruction techniques. The anatomic and individualised ACL reconstruction concept attempts to closely reproduce the patient's individual anatomy with the goal of reproducing the native ACL characteristics and improving patient outcomes. Measurements of the patient's anatomy help determine graft choice and whether anatomic reconstruction should be performed with an single-bundle or double-bundle technique. The bony landmarks and insertions of the ACL are preserved to assist with anatomic placement of both tibial and femoral tunnels. Long-term outcomes for anatomic ACL reconstruction are unknown and future research, considering biomechanics and clinical outcomes, should be focused on this area. Future studies may yield important information with regard to the potential progression to osteoarthritis after ACL reconstruction, including factors affecting or preventing it. In this State of the art review, we have attempted to summarise the best available evidence addressing ACL injury diagnostics, treatment, surgical techniques, complications, tips, pitfalls and geographical differences, following our primary goal of improving medical care and outcomes for patients who suffer an ACL injury.

Anatomic Oblong Double Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using hamstring tendon grafts is a standard procedure for ACL injury. However, its clinical effectiveness is not always satisfactory. One cause of this was problems with the graft-tunnel healing of the posterolateral bundle (PLB) on the femur. To solve this problem, we devised a new anatomic ACL reconstruction technique to improve the graft-tunnel healing of the femoral PLB by using a single-bundle with one bone tunnel on the femoral side and a double-bundle on the tibial side. We have performed 40 procedures with excellent results and no cases of intra- or postoperative complication. This procedure can help improve the graft-tunnel healing around the femoral bone tunnel aperture for the PLB.

Reconstruction of medial patellofemoral ligament using quadriceps tendon combined with reconstruction of medial patellotibial ligament using patellar tendon: initial experience

ObjectiveTo describe a surgical technique for anatomical reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the quadriceps tendon, combined with reconstruction of the medial patellotibial ligament using the patellar tendon; and to present the initial results from a case series. MethodThe proposed technique was used on a series of cases of patients with diagnoses of patellofemoral instability and indications for surgical treatment, who were attended by the Knee Group of HC-IOT, University of São Paulo. The following were evaluated before and after the operation: range of motion (ROM), apprehension test, lateral translation test, patellar inclination test, inverted J sign, subluxation upon extension, pain from compression of the patella and pain from contraction of the quadriceps. After the operation, the patients were asked whether any new episode of dislocation had occurred, what their degree of satisfaction with the surgery was (on a scale from 0 to 10) and whether they would be prepared to go through this operation again. ResultsSeven knees were operated, in seven patients, with a mean follow-up of 5.46 months (±2.07). Four patients who presented apprehension before the operation did not show this after the operation. The lateral translation test became normal for all the patients, while the patellar inclination test remained positive for two patients. The patients with an inverted J sign continued to be positive for this sign. Five patients were positive for subluxation upon extension before the operation, but all patients were negative for this after the operation. None of the patients presented any new episode of dislocation of the patella. All of them stated that they were satisfied: five gave a satisfaction score of 9 and two, a score of 10. All of them said that they would undergo the operation again. Only one patient presented a postoperative complication: dehiscence of the wound. ConclusionReconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the quadriceps tendon, combined with reconstruction of the medial patellotibial ligament using the patellar tendon, was technically safe and presented good objective and subjective clinical results in this case series with a short follow-up.

Treatment strategies for partial chronic instability of the distal syndesmosis: an arthroscopic grading scale and operative staging concept.

The aim of this study was to evaluate three different anatomical reconstruction techniques for the partial chronic isolated instability of the syndesmosis based on own arthroscopic classification criteria. A retrospective study was conducted to review 32 patients (15 female, 17 male; average age 41; range 18-71) with isolated partial chronic instability of the syndesmosis. During the arthroscopic examination of the patient, the instability of the syndesmosis was assessed by inserting a dissector of defined size into the distal tibiofibular joint. The lateralization of the fibula in the distal tibiofibular joint was then semi-quantitatively evaluated and classified. In all cases, open reconstructive surgery was carried out at the same time. Depending on the grading of the instability assessed arthroscopically (Grades I-III), one of three different anatomical reconstruction techniques was performed: suture of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL), ligament repair using periosteal flaps, or autogenous plantaris tendon graft. Patients in all three groups were treated with a screw and an additional preassembled suture-button device. At 8 weeks after surgery, the screw was removed and full weight bearing was allowed. Clinical and radiological follow up were obtained at an average time of 17 months after surgery. Clinical evaluation of the reconstruction techniques was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) and the Weber Score. The median AOFAS score was significantly higher than before surgery for all three groups. In addition, the Weber score was significantly lower in all three groups than before surgery, indicating substantial improvement. There were no complications after the arthroscopies and the reconstructive surgeries. But in two cases, suture granuloma occurred within the 17-month window, which was treated with a revision operation and removal of the suture-button device. Depending on the arthroscopic classification of the partial chronic instability of the syndesmosis, the three different anatomical reconstruction techniques potentially provide appropriate treatment options based on the grade of injury.

Open Anatomic Reconstruction of the Medial Collateral Ligament and Posteromedial Corner

Injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and posteromedial corner can occur in isolation or in the setting of multiligamentous knee injuries. Reconstruction of the MCL and posteromedial corner is indicated in the setting of a multiligamentous knee injury. Isolated cases failing nonoperative treatment may also undergo surgical treatment. Our preferred technique for anatomic medial-sided knee reconstruction is an open anatomic MCL reconstruction using an Achilles tendon allograft along with direct repair of all associated medial and posteromedial structures.

Ankle Arthroscopic Reconstruction of Lateral Ligaments (Ankle Anti-ROLL)

Ankle instability is a condition that often requires surgery to stabilize the ankle joint that will improve pain and function if nonoperative treatments fail. Ankle stabilization surgery may be performed as a repair in which the native existing anterior talofibular ligament or calcaneofibular ligament (or both) is imbricated or reattached. Alternatively, when native ankle ligaments are insufficient for repair, a reconstruction of the ligaments may be performed in which an autologous or allograft tendon is used to reconstruct the anterior talofibular ligament or calcaneofibular ligament (or both). Currently, ankle stabilization surgery is most commonly performed through an open incision, but arthroscopic ankle stabilization using repair techniques has been described and is being used more often. We present our technique for anatomic ankle arthroscopic reconstruction of the lateral ligaments (anti-ROLL) performed in an all–inside-out manner that is likely safe for patients and minimally invasive.

Biomechanical comparison of two surgical techniques for press-fit reconstruction of the posterolateral complex of the knee.

To date, various surgical techniques to treat posterolateral knee instability have been described. Recent studies recommended an anatomical and isometric reconstruction of the posterolateral corner addressing the key structures, such as lateral collateral ligament (LCL), popliteus tendon (POP) and popliteofibular ligament (PFL). Two clinical established autologous respective local reconstruction methods of the posterolateral complex were tested for knot-bone cylinder press-fit fixation to assess efficacy of each reconstruction technique in comparison to the intact knee. The knot-bone cylinder press-fit fixation for both anatomic and isometric reconstruction techniques of the posterolateral complex shows equal biomechanical stability as the intact posterolateral knee structures. This was a controlled laboratory study. Two surgical techniques (Larson: fibula-based semitendinosus autograft for LCL and PFL reconstruction/Kawano: biceps femoris and iliotibial tract autograft for LCL, PFL and POP reconstruction) with press-fit fixation were used for restoration of posterolateral knee stability. Seven cadaveric knees (66 ± 3.4 years) were tested under three conditions: intact knee, sectioned state and reconstructed knee for each surgical technique. Biomechanical stress tests were performed for every state at 30° and 90° knee flexion for anterior-posterior translation (60 N), internal-external and varus-valgus rotation (5 Nm) at 0°, 30° and 90° using a kinemator (Kuka robot). At 30° and 90° knee flexion, no significant differences between the four knee states were registered for anterior-posterior translation loading. Internal-external and varus-valgus rotational loading showed significantly higher instability for the sectioned state than for the intact or reconstructed posterolateral structures (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the intact and reconstructed knee states for internal-external rotation, varus-valgus rotation and anterior-posterior translation at any flexion angles (p > 0.05). Comparing both reconstruction techniques, significant higher varus-/valgus stability was registered for the fibula-based Larson technique at 90° knee flexion (p < 0.05). Both PLC reconstructions showed equal biomechanical stability as the intact posterolateral knee structures when using knot-bone cylinder press-fit fixation. We registered restoration of the rotational and varus-valgus stability with both surgical techniques. The anterior-posterior translational stability was not influenced significantly. The Larson technique showed significant higher varus/valgus stability in 90° flexion. The latter is easier to perform and takes half the preparation time, but needs grafting of the semitendinosus tendon. The Kawano reconstruction technique is an interesting alternative in cases of missing autografts.

Reconstrução do ligamento patelofemoral medial com tendão quadricipital combinada com patelotibial medial com tendão patelar: experiência inicial

ObjectiveTo describe a surgical technique for anatomical reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the quadriceps tendon, combined with reconstruction of the medial patellotibial ligament using the patellar tendon; and to present the initial results from a case series. MethodThe proposed technique was used on a series of cases of patients with diagnoses of patellofemoral instability and indications for surgical treatment, who were attended by the Knee Group of HC‐IOT, University of São Paulo. The following were evaluated before and after the operation: range of motion (ROM), apprehension test, lateral translation test, patellar inclination test, inverted J sign, subluxation upon extension, pain from compression of the patella and pain from contraction of the quadriceps. After the operation, the patients were asked whether any new episode of dislocation had occurred, what their degree of satisfaction with the surgery was (on a scale from zero to 10) and whether they would be prepared to go through this operation again. ResultsSeven knees were operated, in seven patients, with a mean follow‐up of 5.46 months (±2.07). Four patients who presented apprehension before the operation did not show this after the operation. The lateral translation test became normal for all the patients, while the patellar inclination test remained positive for two patients. The patients with an inverted J sign continued to be positive for this sign. Five patients were positive for subluxation upon extension before the operation, but all patients were negative for this after the operation. None of the patients presented any new episode of dislocation of the patella. All of them stated that they were satisfied: five gave a satisfaction score of 9 and two, a score of 10. All of them said that they would undergo the operation again. Only one patient presented a postoperative complication: dehiscence of the wound. ConclusionReconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using the quadriceps tendon, combined with reconstruction of the medial patellotibial ligament using the patellar tendon, was technically safe and presented good objective and subjective clinical results in this case series with a short follow‐up.