Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament Research Articles

Enhancing stability and outcomes in young Indian footballers: The synergistic effect of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with lateral extra-articular tenodesis – A prospective observational cohort study

Objectives: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are frequently seen injuries in young footballers that can contribute to chronic knee instability, meniscal injuries, and increased risk of early-onset osteoarthritis if not properly treated. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the clinical findings of combined ACL reconstruction and lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) in 22 male footballers aged 20–30. ACL reconstruction was carried out using hamstring autografts and LET was done utilizing a modified Lemaire procedure with iliotibial band autograft. Clinical findings were studied preoperatively and at six months and one year postoperatively utilizing the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Tegner–Lysholm scores. Results: Mean IKDC and Tegner-Lysholm scores were similar or slightly improved at six months compared to pre-operative baselines and further increased at one year follow-up, with the improvements being statistically significant. There are no cases of graft failure occurred. Conclusion: A combination of ACL reconstruction and LET is a safe and effective treatment for ACL tears in young footballers, which can restore knee stability and allow them to go back to sports. Adding LET to ACL reconstruction may help lower the likelihood of graft failure in this high-risk population.

Changes in the Elongation Pattern of the Medial Collateral Ligament During a Single-Leg Squat After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear impairs knee biomechanics in daily activities and potentially breaks the synergy among other knee ligaments. Previous studies have demonstrated that the biomechanics of collateral ligaments is influenced by ACL deficiency. To investigate changes in the elongation patterns of the medial collateral ligament (MCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) during the execution of a single-leg squat before and after ACL reconstruction. Descriptive laboratory study. A total of 16 patients (mean age, 24.9 ± 8.5 years) with ACL deficiency were enrolled in the study. Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the affected knees were used to produce 3-dimensional models of the tibia and femur and identify insertion sites of the MCL, LCL, and PCL. Motion capture of a single-leg squat was performed through a biplanar radiographic system. Data were acquired before ACL reconstruction and at a minimum of 18 months (mean, 22.9 ± 4.1 months) postoperatively. The centroids of the ligaments' insertions were used to calculate the length of the investigated structures during the squat task. Absolute length (L), absolute length increase from the orthostatic resting position (ΔL), and relative length increase (ΔL%) were computed for each ligament, and preoperative and postoperative data were compared using the paired Student t test. The intraclass correlation coefficient was used to determine the reliability of the ligament insertion's identification and kinematics between 2 independent observers. Significant differences were found for the MCL in absolute length increase (P = .047; Cohen d = 0.60) and relative length increase (P = .043; Cohen d = 0.61) from rest between preoperatively and postoperatively (ΔL pre = 1.0 mm; ΔL post = -1.1 mm; difference = 2.1 mm) at 0° to 30° of knee flexion during the descending phase of the single-leg squat. No differences were seen in the elongation patterns of the LCL or PCL from before to after ACL reconstruction. The MCL was significantly longer between 0° and 30° in ACL-deficient knees compared with ACL-reconstructed knees during the descending phase of a single-leg squat. No differences were identified for the LCL or PCL. Early ACL reconstruction could have a protective effect on the MCL in combined ACL and MCL lesions.

Effect of Graft Choice for ACL Reconstruction on Clinical Outcomes in Combined ACL and MCL Injuries: Comparison Between Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring Autografts

Background/Objectives: The optimal graft, particularly in combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries, remains controversial. We evaluated the influence of graft choice between bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) and hamstring autografts on clinical outcomes in combined ACL and MCL injuries. Methods: This retrospective analysis included patients with concurrent ACL and MCL injuries who underwent single-bundle ACL reconstruction with BPTB (group B) or hamstring (group H) grafts, between 2010 and 2019, with a ≥2-year follow-up. Patients were classified based on the MCL injury grade (I, II, or III). Clinical outcomes were assessed through knee stability evaluations using valgus stress radiographs and the KT-2000 arthrometer, patient-reported outcomes using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score and Lysholm score, and radiologic outcomes using the IKDC radiographic grade. Results: The study included 169 patients (group B, 92; group H, 77). No significant between-group differences in knee stability or functional outcomes were found after follow-up. Within the same MCL injury grade, particularly in high-grade MCL injuries, BPTB grafts resulted in significantly better medial stability (side-to-side difference in medial joint opening on valgus stress radiographs: grade II, p = 0.006; grade III, p = 0.039) and functional outcomes (IKDC subjective score: grade II, p = 0.045; grade III, p = 0.038) than hamstring grafts. In the hamstring group, higher-grade MCL injuries were associated with worse outcomes (Lysholm knee score, p = 0.009; IKDC subjective score, p = 0.015). Conclusions: Graft choice in ACL reconstruction with concomitant MCL injuries may affect clinical outcomes, particularly in high-grade MCL injuries. Although both graft types performed similarly overall, BPTB grafts provided superior medial stability and functional results in higher-grade MCL injuries. However, caution is needed when interpreting these results due to limitations such as the small sample size and the lack of randomization in graft selection.

The Incidence of Injuries to Ramp Semimembranosus Complex Lesions After ACL Injury: An MRI Study

Background: Medial meniscal ramp lesions have recently been an area of interest because of their recognized prevalence in association with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures. Anatomically, the medial meniscal ramp is composed of the meniscocapsular ligament in continuity with the semimembranosus muscle and the meniscotibial ligament. Diagnosis of ramp semimembranosus complex (RSC) injuries remains challenging, and their prevalence is likely to be underestimated in comparison with ramp lesions. Purpose: To determine the prevalence of RSC lesions after a complete ACL rupture. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A retrospective database analysis was performed. The cohort consisted of the first 100 patients with complete ACL rupture confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) who underwent knee arthroscopy for ACL reconstruction in 2019. The semimembranosus lesions were identified using MRI by 2 independent radiologists specializing in musculoskeletal imaging. The ramp lesions were initially diagnosed using MRI and then confirmed during arthroscopy by an experienced knee surgeon. The magnitude of rotatory instability was recorded using the pivot-shift test. A multivariate analysis was used to determine the lesions associated with the semimembranosus complex. Results: Of 100 patients, 53 showed lesions of the RSC; among them, 30 ramp lesions were confirmed after arthroscopic evaluation, and 40 semimembranosus lesions (23 without ramp lesion and 17 with ramp lesion) were found using MRI. A positive pivot shift was present in 57% of patients with combined RSC injury ( P = .04) compared with 36% in patients without an RSC lesion. Conclusion: Lesions of the RSC were found in more than half of ACL ruptures in this retrospective cohort. Rotational instability could be associated with combined ACL and RSC injury.

Single-bundle ACL combined with ALL reconstruction yields comparable outcomes in patients with varied anatomical risk factors for ACL graft failure

BackgroundAnterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft failure is influenced by factors such as meniscal tears and tibial plateau slope. Combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction has reduced failure rates; however, its efficacy in high-risk patients remains unclear. This study hypothesized that combined ACL and ALL reconstruction would yield similar clinical outcomes in patients with varying risks of ACL failure.Patients and methodsA total of 76 patients who underwent primary single-bundle ACL reconstruction combined with ALL reconstruction between June 2018 and June 2021 were included. The medial tibial slope (MTS), lateral tibial slope (LTS), and anterior tibial translation (ATT) were measured using magnetic resonance imaging and plain radiography of the knee joint. The meniscal lesions were assessed during surgery. Preoperative clinical assessments and final follow-up were conducted using patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs), including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, Lysholm knee scoring scale, and Tegner Activity scale. PROMs were collected at least two years postoperatively.ResultsThe average follow-up was 32.5 ± 7.4 months. There were no significant differences in postoperative IKDC score, Lysholm score, or Tegner activity score between patients with or without medial meniscus injury (p = 0.155, 0.914, and 0.042, respectively), with or without lateral meniscus injury (p = 0.737, 0.569, and 0.942, respectively), medial tibial slope > 12° or ≤ 12° (p = 0.290, 0.496, and 0.988, respectively), or lateral tibial slope > 7.4° or ≤ 7.4° (p = 0.213, 0.625, and 0.922, respectively). No significant correlations were found between anterior tibial translation and postoperative IKDC (R = -0.058, p = 0.365), Lysholm (R = -0.017, p = 0.459), or Tegner activity scores (R = -0.147, p = 0.189).ConclusionOur study demonstrates that single-bundle ACL reconstruction combined with ALL reconstruction provides reliable and comparable clinical outcomes in patients with high-risk factors for ACL graft failure, such as increased tibial slope or meniscal injury. Our results suggest that the indications for ALL reconstruction may be expanded to include patients with a high tibial slope or meniscal injury, because these factors have been shown to contribute to increased rotational instability and high rates of ACL graft failure. Future prospective randomized controlled trials with large patient cohorts and long follow-up periods are needed to validate these findings and establish clear guidelines for patient selection and surgical decision-making.Level of evidenceLevel 3.

Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Using a Flexible Reaming System

The combination of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction represents a therapeutic modality that exhibits superior clinical efficacy for certain risk groups when compared with isolated ACL reconstruction. This approach is progressively gaining broader applicability owing to its inherent prospective advantages. Despite the absence of a universally acknowledged gold-standard surgical technique, several methods have been delineated for its implementation. Typically, conventional practice involves the creation of distinct individual tunnels in the femur, followed by graft fixation using interference screws. However, the conventional steps in the technique are not without potential drawbacks. These include tunnel convergence, screw migration, screw irritation, and the risk of lateral collateral ligament injury. The manifestation of such unfavorable outcomes can necessitate a subsequent surgical intervention for effective management. Consequently, adopting a single socket-shaped tunnel strategy for concurrent reconstruction of the ACL and ALL, coupled with femoral fixation using an adjustable-loop button facilitated by a flexible reaming system, presents potential advantages. This alternative approach can mitigate the aforementioned risks by minimizing morbidity and preserving bone stock. The technique is feasible and reproducible, offering a pragmatic avenue for optimizing clinical outcomes in combined ACL and ALL reconstruction.

Career Length After Surgically Treated ACL Plus Collateral Ligament Injury in Elite Athletes

Background: Limited data are available regarding career length and competition level after combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial- or lateral-sided surgeries in elite athletes. Purpose: To evaluate career length after surgical treatment of combined ACL plus medial collateral ligament (MCL) and ACL plus posterolateral corner (PLC) injuries in elite athletes and, in a subgroup analysis of male professional soccer players, to compare career length and competition level after combined ACL+MCL or ACL+PLC surgeries with a cohort who underwent isolated ACL reconstruction (ACLR). Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A consecutive cohort of elite athletes undergoing combined ACL+MCL and ACL+PLC surgery was analyzed between February 2001 and October 2019. A subgroup of male elite soccer players from this population was compared with a previously identified cohort having had isolated primary ACLR without other ligament surgery. A minimum 2-year follow-up was required. Outcome measures were career length and competition level. Results: A total of 98 elite athletes met the inclusion criteria, comprising 50 ACL+PLC and 48 ACL+MCL surgeries. The mean career length after surgical treatment of combined ACL+MCL and ACL+PLC injuries was 4.5 years. Return-to-play (RTP) time was significantly longer for ACL+PLC injuries (12.8 months; P = .019) than for ACL+MCL injuries (10.9 months). In the subgroup analysis of soccer players, a significantly lower number of players with combined ACL+PLC surgery were able to RTP (88%; P = .003) compared with 100% for ACL+MCL surgery and 97% for isolated ACLR, as well as requiring an almost 3 months longer RTP timeline (12.9 months; P = .002) when compared with the isolated ACL (10.2 months) and combined ACL+MCL (10.0 months) groups. However, career length and competition level were not significantly different between groups. Conclusion: Among elite athletes, the mean career length after surgical treatment of combined ACL+MCL and ACL+PLC injuries was 4.5 years. Professional soccer players with combined ACL+PLC surgery returned at a lower rate and required a longer RTP time when compared with the players with isolated ACL or combined ACL+MCL injuries. However, those who did RTP had the same career longevity and competition level.

Combined Open-Anterolateral Ligament and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction of the Knee: The “Open-ALL”

The addition of an extra-articular reinforcement, such as the anterolateral ligament (ALL) or a Lemaire’s procedure, in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions has shown good clinical results, with greater graft protection and a lower rerupture rate. Despite being a reproducible procedure, its application in cases of large, muscled knees or in obese patients can be challenging. This Technical Note describes the “Open-ALL” technique, using a mini-open approach for a combined anterior cruciate ligament and ALL reconstruction.

Combined Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Results in Better Knee Stability and More Satisfactory Subjective Outcomes in Non-Athlete Patients Undergoing Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background: Consensus has not yet been reached regarding combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ALLR) with revisional anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (RACLR). We aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between patients who underwent isolated RACLR and those who underwent RACLR combined with ALLR. Methods: Between June 2010 and June 2021, 49 patients who underwent RACLR were retrospectively reviewed over a 24-month follow-up. Patients were categorized into the isolated RACLR (n = 37, group 1) or combined ALLR group (n = 12, group 2). Clinical outcomes were evaluated with several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for each PROM. The side-to-side difference (SSD) of the anterior instability was measured. The pivot-shift test was performed. Results: Baseline characteristics showed no differences between the groups. PROMs showed no significant differences between the groups at the 2-year follow-up. Group 2 was superior to group 1 in the MCID achievement rate for Lysholm knee and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores at 24 months postoperatively. At the final follow-up, the proportion of IKDC grade A in SSD for anterior laxity was higher in group 2 than in group 1 (58.3% versus [vs.] 18.3%, p = 0.009), and the proportion of pivot-shift grade 0 was also higher in group 2 (66.7% vs. 27.0%, p = 0.013). The "near return to activity" rate was also higher in group 2 than in group 1 (83.3% vs. 45.9%, p = 0.043). Conclusions: Combining ALLR with RACLR in non-athletes results in a higher proportion of patients with less mechanical graft failure and satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Combined, Pedicled Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction - “PAAR” Technique

Despite constant development of surgical implants, instruments, and rehabilitation protocols, the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction remain unpredictable, and the failure rate of isolated procedures remains unacceptably high. Several factors possibly concerning suboptimal outcomes and risk of graft rerupture have been highlighted, among which are graft healing, tunnel position, and residual rotational instability. Recent studies have suggested that addressing anterolateral complex injury and enhancing graft healing properties might improve the outcomes of surgery. We propose a simple technique of combined anterior cruciate ligament and anterolateral ligament reconstruction using pedicled semitendinosus and gracilis tendons with a single femoral tunnel and no additional tibial tunnels.

Management of Medial Femorotibial Knee Osteoarthritis in Conjunction with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency: Technical Note and Literature Review.

In recent years, there has been increased interest in the management of medial femorotibial knee osteoarthritis (OA) in conjunction with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) deficiency. Traditional treatment modalities included conservative therapy, high tibial osteotomy with or without ACL reconstruction, and total knee replacement. Since younger patients with higher physical demands are more likely to suffer from this pathological condition, reduced invasiveness, faster recovery time, and improved knee kinematics are preferred to allow for satisfying clinical and functional outcomes. Thus, a new surgical strategy combining medial unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) and ACL reconstruction has been proposed to allow bone stock preservation, to reduce surgical morbidity and recovery time, and ultimately to improve joint kinematics and clinical outcomes. Based on the data present in the literature, in the setting of unicompartmental OA in association with ACL deficiency, UKR combined with ACL reconstruction provided encouraging early results. Studies evaluating the outcomes of combined ACL reconstruction and UKR demonstrate promising results in select patient populations. Improved knee stability, pain relief, functional recovery, and patient satisfaction improved after surgery. Moreover, the combined approach offered advantages such as reduced surgical trauma, faster rehabilitation, and preservation of native knee anatomy compared with traditional treatment strategies. However, still, high-level studies on this topic are lacking; therefore, more comparative studies reporting long-term outcomes are needed to support the potential of this combined procedure to become mainstream. In this paper, we discuss the relevant features and rationale behind the indications and technique of this combined surgical procedure, to help surgeons choose the correct therapeutic approach for a patient with concomitant medial OA and ACL insufficiency. Continued advancements in surgical techniques, patient selection criteria, and rehabilitation strategies will further enhance the success of this combined approach, offering hope to individuals with concomitant ACL injuries and unicompartmental knee OA.

Effect of Lateral Extra-Articular Procedures Combined With ACL Reconstruction on the Rate of Graft Rupture in Patients Aged Older Than 30 Years: A Matched-Pair Analysis of 1102 Patients From the SANTI Study Group

Background: Clinical studies have demonstrated significant advantages of combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) and lateral extra-articular procedures (LEAPs) over isolated ACLR in terms of reducing graft rupture and reoperation rates. However, most of the published studies have included young patients, and no studies have focused on patients aged >30 years. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of isolated ACLR versus ACLR + LEAP at midterm follow-up in patients aged >30 years. The hypothesis was that patients who underwent combined procedures would experience significantly lower rates of graft rupture. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Patients >30 years of age who underwent primary ACLR + LEAP between January 2003 and December 2020 were propensity matched at a 1:1 ratio to patients who underwent isolated ACLR. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed to determine graft rupture rates, knee stability, reoperation rates, and complications. Graft survivorship was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Risk factors associated with the occurrence of graft failure were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards model. Results: Two groups of 551 patients each were included in the study, and the mean follow-up was 97.19 ± 47.23 months. The overall mean age was 37.01 ± 6.24 years. The LEAP group consisted of 503 (91.3%) patients who had anterolateral ligament reconstruction and 48 (8.7%) patients who had a Lemaire procedure. Overall, 19 (1.7%) patients had graft failure: 15 (2.7%) in the no-LEAP group and 4 (0.7%) in the LEAP group (P = .0116). The risk of graft failure was significantly associated with the absence of LEAP (31 vs 12; hazard ratio, 3.309; 95% CI, 1.088-10.065; P = .0350) and age between 30 and 35 years (hazard ratio, 4.533; 95% CI, 1.484-13.841; P = .0080). A higher rate of reoperation for secondary meniscectomy was found in the no-LEAP group (5.6% vs 2.2%; P = .0031). Conclusion: Patients aged >30 years who underwent combined ACLR and LEAP experienced a >3-fold lower risk of ACL graft failure compared with those who underwent isolated ACLR. Furthermore, the group without LEAP experienced a higher rate of secondary meniscectomy.

Addition of anterolateral ligament reconstruction to primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction could benefit recovery of functional outcomes

This study aimed to compare functional outcomes sequentially up to 1 year after combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) and isolated ACLR. Fifty patients who underwent ACLR with versus without ALLR were analyzed at four different time points (preoperatively and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively). For the functional outcomes, muscle strength and acceleration time (AT) were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Proprioception was evaluated using joint position sense and dynamic postural stability. Patient-reported outcomes were measured using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-11) scores. Functional performance was assessed using single-leg hop distance (SLHD) and Limb Symmetry Index. In the operated knees, quadriceps (at 6 months postoperatively, p = 0.003) and hamstring (at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, p < 0.001) strength were significantly higher in the combined ACLR and ALLR group than the isolated ACLR group. The TSK-11 (at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, p < 0.001) was significantly lower in the combined ACLR and ALLR group than the isolated ACLR group. SLHD was significantly higher in the combined ACLR and ALLR group than the isolated ACLR group (at 6 months, p = 0.022 and at 12 months, p = 0.024). The addition of ALLR to primary ACLR yielded better muscle performance, fear of movement, and functional performance than isolated ACLR.

Association of Posterior Tibial Slope With Outcomes After Multiligamentous Knee Reconstruction for Knee Dislocation Grades 2 to 4.

Patients with isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have demonstrated an increased risk of ACL graft failure and lower patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores when increased posterior tibial slope (PTS) is present. However, there is a paucity of literature evaluating the effect of PTS on outcomes after combined bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstruction. To determine whether differences exist for graft failure rates or PRO scores based on PTS after combined bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstruction. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. All patients who underwent combined ACL and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction between 2000 and 2020 at our institution were identified. Exclusion criteria were age <18 years, knee dislocation grade 5 injuries, concomitant osteotomy procedures, and <2 years of clinical follow-up. Demographic and outcomes data were collected from our prospectively gathered multiligamentous knee injury database. Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were analyzed in relation to PTS. Outcomes were compared for patients with a PTS above and below the mean for the total cohort, PTS >12° versus <12°, positive versus negative Lachman test at follow-up, and positive versus negative posterior drawer test at follow-up. A total of 98 knees in 98 patients were included in the study, with a mean clinical follow-up of 5.1 years (median, 4.6 years; range, 2-16 years). The mean PTS was 8.7° (range, 0.4°-16.9°). Linear regression analysis showed no significant correlation between PTS and IKDC or Lysholm scores. Patients with a PTS above the mean of 8.7° trended toward lower IKDC (P = .08) and Lysholm (P = .06) scores. Four patients experienced ACL graft failure and 5 patients experienced PCL graft failure. There were no differences in graft failure rates or PRO scores for patients with a PTS >12°. Patients with a positive Lachman test trended toward higher PTS (9.6° vs 8.5°, P = .15). In this series of bicruciate multiligamentous knee reconstructions at midterm follow-up, no differences in graft failures, complications, reoperations, revisions, or PRO scores based on PTS were identified. Patients with a positive Lachman test were found to have a slightly higher PTS, although this did not reach statistical significance.

Combined ACL and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Using an Adjustable-Loop Fixation Device: Surgical Technique

Background: There are several techniques for the combined reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the anterolateral ligament (ALL), but none have shown superiority. This study aims to present a surgical technique that theoretically reduces some of the risks reported in these procedures. Indications: The main indications for the ALL reconstruction include chronic ACL injuries, revision ACL reconstruction, acute ACL injuries in patients with high-grade pivot-shift (grades 2 or 3), patients involved in pivoting sports, and generalized ligament hyperlaxity or knee hyperextension. Technique Description: Hamstring tendon autografts are used for the ACL and ALL reconstruction; a common femoral ACL and ALL tunnel is made outside-in, making a short socket. A continuous looped hamstring tendon autograft attached to one button is used. The ACL is fixed with an adjustable-loop button. Through small incisions, the tibial fixation of both grafts is performed with bioabsorbable screws. Results: We present a 19-year-old professional soccer player with an acute ACL tear, with no associated meniscal or chondral lesions. Owing to his young age and high-risk sports practice, a combined ACL and ALL reconstruction was performed. The combined ACL and ALL reconstruction with a single femoral tunnel using the hamstrings tendons graft is a well-established procedure for ACL augmentation, reducing failure rates for certain risk groups, with excellent outcomes reported. The use of an adjustable-loop button on the femur is a viable option for this kind of reconstruction with postoperative stability comparable to the interference screw, classically used for this kind of reconstruction. Discussion/Conclusion: This technique has some advantages, such as the use of a short outside-in femoral socket, thus theoretically improving healing. In addition, this lowers the risk of lateral collateral ligament injury, and since the ileotibial band graft is not used, the risk of injuring the lateral inferior genicular vessels and the peroneal nerve is theoretically reduced. Besides, using an adjustable-loop cortical button in the femur can theoretically reduce potential complications such as screw migration, soft-tissue impingement, femoral-site pain, and implant removal. Finally, the reconstruction is done with small incisions, improving the aesthetic result and postoperative pain. Considering all the aforementioned factors, this technique theoretically offers some benefits. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

A lateral extra-articular tenodesis without additional hardware: Surgical technique and biomechanical comparison with an anatomic anterolateral ligament reconstruction in the augmentation of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BackgroundThe aims of this study were to describe a lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) using no additional hardware and compare the tibiofemoral kinematics of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction augmented with either the LET or a standard anatomic anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction using intra-tunnel fixation. MethodsTen cadaveric knees were mounted on a robotic testing system and underwent a kinematic assessment of anterior tibial translation and internal tibial rotation under a simulated pivot-shift in the following states: ACL-intact, ACL-sectioned, ACL-sectioned/anterolateral complex (ALC)-sectioned, ACL-reconstructed/ALC-sectioned, ACL-reconstructed/ALL-reconstructed, and ACL-reconstructed/LET. For the LET, an iliotibial autograft was passed under the fibular collateral ligament and secured to the femur with the pull sutures of the ACL reconstruction femoral cortical suspensory fixation device, positioned at the distal ridge of Kaplan’s fibers. ResultsAnterior tibial translation was restored to normal by ACL reconstruction without meaningful benefit of augmentation with LET or ALL. ACL reconstruction restored internal tibial rotation close to normal between 0° and 30°, but increased internal tibial rotation persisted between 45° and 90°. Augmentation of ACL reconstruction with the LET reduced internal rotation close to normal between 45° and 90°, whereas increased internal rotation persisted after ALL reconstruction. ConclusionACL reconstruction and LET are complementary in controlling tibiofemoral kinematics of knees with a combined ACL and ALC injury: ACL reconstruction restored native tibiofemoral kinematics except for internal rotation at flexion greater than 30°. The increased internal rotation at flexion greater than 30° was restored to normal with an LET, but not with an ALL reconstruction.

All-inside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with and without anterolateral ligament reconstruction: a prospective study.

There is no clear consensus regarding the superiority of a combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) versus an isolated ACLR. In this study, we compared the postoperative stability profile, complications, and patient-reported outcomes of these procedures. Twenty-one patients with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear who were either treated by an isolated all-inside ACLR (n = 21) or a combined all-inside ACLR and ALLR (n = 20) were included. The outcomes were evaluated in the last follow-up and included the postoperative stability profile evaluated by the Lachman test, pivot shift test, and KT-1000 side-to-side difference, postoperative complications, and patient-reported outcomes evaluated by the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Lysholm knee scale. The baseline characteristics of the two groups were not significantly different. The residual Lachman and pivot shift were not significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.41 and P = 0.18, respectively). The mean KT-1000 side-to-side difference was 1.93 ± 1.9mm in the isolated and 1.635 ± 0.91mm in the combined group (P = 0.01). The mean improvement of the IKDC score was not significantly different between the isolated and combined groups (24.7 vs. 25.2, P = 0.28). The mean improvement of the Lysholm scale was not significantly different between the isolated and combined groups (33.5 vs. 34.1, P = 0.19). ACL re-rupture occurred in three patients of the isolated group and no patient of the combined group. The outcomes of patients in the present study support performing a combined ALL and ACL reconstruction.

Unicompartmental knee replacement combined with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction provides comparable results to total knee replacement with no increased risk of complications.

There is controversy about the management of unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis (OA) in young, active patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insufficiency. This study compares the subjective, radiological, and functional results of total knee replacement (TKR) vs. combined medial unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) with ACL reconstruction. Twelve patients suffering from medial OA and ACL deficiency with varus knee deformity and/or tibial slope<10° and absence of patellofemoral-related problems were eligible for combined UKR and ACL reconstruction (Group A). Twenty-six patients matched for age, male/female ratio and body mass index who received TKR in the same time frame were included as a control group (Group B). Oxford Knee Score (OKS), WOMAC index of osteoarthritis, Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and routine X-rays were used for assessment. Ten years after surgery, the mean overall KOOS score, OKS, WOMAC index increased from preoperatively, showing a statistically significant difference (p<0.001). In terms of KOOS, OKS, or WOMAC scores at the most recent follow-up, there was no discernible difference between the groups (p=n.s.). Three years following surgery, one female patient in group A received revision TKR due to the lateral compartment's osteoarthritis developing and the patient's pain persisting. Concerning radiographic assessment, at the most recent follow-up (average 7.9years in group A and 8.8years in group B), there were no radiographic indications of implant loosening or proof of pathologic radiolucent lines. UKR combined with ACL restoration offers clinical and radiographic outcomes comparable to TKR 10years following surgery with no elevated risk of complications.

Outcomes of combined ACL reconstruction and open wedge HTO: a systematic review

The deterioration of knee structures is enhanced by the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, which also can lead to osteoarthritis following a series of events. Additionally, untreated ACL insufficiency can lead to varus malalignment. ACL reconstruction can achieve the stability of the knee and restrict the osteoarthritis progression. High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is an intervention for the correction of varus malalignment in the lower extremity. HTO efficacy has been extended for the management of ACL-deficient varus knees. The combination of ACL reconstruction with HTO may result in better outcomes. The present review aimed at assessing the outcomes of ACL reconstruction and open wedge HTO combination. Scientific databases were explored for related studies published after 2015 and using a set of keywords for the searching process. Eligible criteria of the included studies were original articles written in the English language, reporting a combination of ACL reconstruction and open wedge HTO available for full text. A total of eight articles were included as they met the determined criteria. The total number of patients was 163 cases with an age range of 18 years and less than 70 years. The follow-up period was between 12 months and 10 years. The combination of ACL reconstruction and open wedge HTO resulted in favorable outcomes. However, there were few complications and a low rate of failure.

Short-term results of combined anterior cruciate ligament and anterolateral ligament reconstruction using a novel hamstrings graft construct in obese patients: a pilot study

Abstract Background Elevated body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased complication rates including failures in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. We present our short-term results of our technique used for ACL reconstruction in obese patients with the aim to reduce chances for graft failure and improve outcomes. Patients and methods We present our case series of obese patients (BMI &gt; 30) operated for ACL reconstruction during the period from January 2017 to January 2022 using a dedicated technique for ACL reconstruction. We are using hamstring tendons prepared in a single construct to reconstruct both the intra-articular ACL and the anterolateral ligament. All patients received the same surgical technique and associated injuries were operated on according to their indications and guidelines. All patients completed the subjective knee evaluation form of the International Knee Documentation Committee at the time of the procedure and at the last follow-up visit and assessment of knee laxity was performed using a KT-1000 arthrometer before the surgery and at the last follow-up. Results Twenty patients underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using this technique during the study period, with average follow-up period of 1 year. All cases were males, mean BMI was 32.2 (30.4–36.2), 18 cases were operated on using ipsilateral Semitendinosus and Gracilis grafts, 2 cases were operated on using contralateral knee hamstrings. All cases were instructed nonweight bearing for 6 weeks after surgery and received the same standard accelerated rehabilitation protocol. Two cases developed postoperative superficial wound infection at the graft harvest site that resolved with conservative treatment of oral antibiotics and wound care. The mean postoperative International Knee Documentation Committee score improved from 45.195 to 79.245 (P&lt;0.001), and the mean KT-1000 arthrometer differential improved from 11.8 to 2.77 (P&lt;0.001) and pivot shift tests were negative in the postoperative exam for all the cases. Conclusion ACLR in obese patients should be approached with care, our technique can offer a feasible solution to obtain an acceptable outcome, Further work is required to provide insight on the long-term outcome of ACLR in obese patients.