Gracilis Tendon Research Articles

Overview of the anterolateral complex of the knee.

In the last few years, much more information on the anterolateral complex of the knee has become available. It has now been demonstrated how it works in conjunction with the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) controlling anterolateral rotatory laxity. Biomechanical studies have shown that the anterolateral complex (ALC) has a role as a secondary stabilizer to the ACL in opposing anterior tibial translation and internal tibial rotation. It is of utmost importance that surgeons comprehend the intricate anatomy of the entire anterolateral aspect of the knee. Although most studies have only focused on the anterolateral ligament (ALL), the ALC of the knee consists of a functional unit formed by the layers of the iliotibial band combined with the anterolateral joint capsule. Considerable interest has also been given to imaging evaluation using magnetic resonance and several studies have targeted the evaluation of the ALC in the setting of ACL injury. Results are inconsistent with a lack of association between magnetic resonance imaging evidence of injury and clinical findings. Isolated ACL reconstruction may not always reestablish knee rotatory stability in patients with associated ALC injury. In such cases, additional procedures, such as anterolateral reconstruction or lateral tenodesis, may be indicated. There are several techniques available for ALL reconstruction. Graft options include the iliotibial band, gracilis or semitendinosus tendon autograft, or allograft.

Predicting autologous hamstring graft diameter and finding reliable measurement levels in the Zhuang population using preoperative ultrasonography.

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of using ultrasonography to preoperatively predict the autologous hamstring graft diameter for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the Zhuang population and determine a reliable measurement level using ultrasound. Methods: Twenty-four Zhuang patients who were scheduled for ACL reconstruction using four-strand semitendinosus tendon (ST) and gracilis tendon (G) (4S-STG) autografts were included in this study. Ultrasonographic examinations of the ST and the G on the damaged side were conducted before the operation. We recorded the transverse diameter (TD), anterior–posterior diameter (APD), cross-sectional area (CSA), and perimeter (P) of the tendons. The measurements were obtained from two levels of the tendons: the widest point of the medial femoral epicondyle (level 1) and the myotendinous junction of the sartorius (level 2). We also calculated the combined (ST + G) TD, APD, CSA, and p values. Then, we obtained the intraoperative measurements. The correlation between the ultrasonic and intraoperative measurements was analyzed, and the advantages of the ultrasonic measurements at the two different levels were compared. Results: When we measured at level 1, we found that part of the ultrasonic measurements were correlated with intraoperative measurements. The preoperative CSA of the G (P-GCSA) can be used to distinguish a 4S-STG autograft diameter of ≥8 mm (p < 0.01, mean difference = 3.7). The area under the P-GCSA curve was 0.801 (p < 0.05). A P-GCSA of 8.5 mm2 could be used to predict a 4S-STG autograft diameter of ≥8 mm with a sensitivity of 61.1% and specificity of 83.3%. However, there was no correlation between the ultrasonic and intraoperative measurements at level 2. Conclusion: Preoperative ultrasound can be used to predict the sufficient diameter of 4S-STG autografts when considering patients from Zhuang who are undergoing ACL reconstruction. The ultrasonic measurement should be obtained at the widest point of the medial femoral epicondyle.

At 10-Year Minimum Follow-Up, One-Third of Patients Have Patellofemoral Arthritis After Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction Using Gracilis Tendon Autograft

To report the long-term clinical outcomes after isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLr) to treat recurrent patellar instability. This was a single-center study of patients undergoing an isolated MPFLr between 2000 and 2011. All patients underwent reconstruction using hamstring autograft. The inclusion criteria were a minimum 10-year follow-up period and skeletally mature patients with more than 1 episode of patellar dislocation who underwent MPFLr without an associated bony procedure. A total of 54 knees were available for final analysis. The mean follow-up period was 12.3 years (range, 10-14 year). The mean age at surgery was 25 years. No patients had patellofemoral arthritis (PFA) prior to surgery. Preoperatively, the mean Caton-Deschamps index was 1.1 and the mean tibial tubercle-trochlear groove distance was 14.9 ± 2 mm (range, 7-17 mm). All patients had trochlear dysplasia according to the Dejour classification. At final follow-up, the mean Kujala score was 82.9 ± 15.3; mean International Knee Documentation Committee score, 78.3 ± 18.5; and mean Tegner score, 4.0 ± 1.7. Patients with an unsatisfactory outcome as determined by a Kujala score lower than 80 had a higher Caton-Deschamps index preoperatively and were more likely to be female patients; however, neither factor reached significance. Of the patients, 33 (66%) had no radiographic evidence of PFA whereas 15 (30%) had Iwano stage 1 and 2 had Iwano stage 2 (4%). At final follow-up, 4 patients (7.4%) had recurrent instability requiring revision surgery. Isolated MPFLr with gracilis tendon autograft in appropriately selected patients is an effective long-term treatment for recurrent patellofemoral instability with low rates of recurrence. One-third of patients exhibit radiographic evidence of PFA more than 10 years after isolated MPFLr. Level IV, case series.

Reconstruction of the cervical ligament in patients with chronic subtalar instability

PurposeDiagnosis and treatment of subtalar instability (STI) remains complicated and challenging. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome of an anatomical reconstruction of the cervical ligament in patients with suspected chronic STI. MethodsThis prospective study assessed the results of a surgical reconstruction of the cervical ligament using a gracilis tendon graft in a group of 14 patients (16 feet). Diagnosis of STI was performed using a predefined algorithm including clinical signs, MRI and peroperative evaluation. All patients had symptoms of chronic hindfoot instability despite prolonged non-surgical treatment. At final follow-up the outcome was assessed using the Karlsson score, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score. ResultsAfter an average follow up of 22.6 months (range, 15–36), all patients reported significant improvement compared to their preoperative symptoms. The mean preoperative Karlsson score improved from 36.4 ± 13.5 (median 37, range 10–55) to a mean postoperative Karlsson score was 89.6 ± 8.5 (median 90, range 72–100) (P < 0.0001). The cervical ligament reconstruction was combined with other procedures in 13 cases: calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) reconstruction (3), CFL and anterior talofibular ligament reconstruction (7), bifurcate ligament reconstruction (3). ConclusionAnatomical reconstruction of the cervical ligament is a valid technique to treat patients with STI. It is a safe procedure and produces good clinical results with minimal complications. This technique can be considered in more complex cases and can be combined with other procedures according to the specific location of the instability. Level of evidenceLevel III

Alternate Graft Options for Staged Flexor Tendon Reconstruction: A Cadaveric Study of Hamstring Autografts Compared to Conventional Autografts

To compare the semitendinosus and gracilis tendon lengths and diameters to the palmaris longus, plantaris, flexor digitorum profundus, and flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendons in a cadaveric model to evaluate the feasibility of hamstring autograft use for staged flexor tendon reconstruction. Fifteen fresh cadavers were evaluated for surgical incisions about the knee, forearm, and hand. All flexor digitorum profundus (FDP), FPL, palmaris longus, plantaris, semitendinosus, and gracilis tendons were harvested from each specimen. Diameter and length were recorded and means with SDs were calculated. The mean diameters of the gracilis and semitendinosus were compared to the mean diameters of the FDP and FPL tendons. The hamstring tendon lengths were then compared in terms of percentage of the palmaris longus and plantaris tendon lengths. The gracilis (18.0 cm) and semitendinosus (19.9 cm) means were notably longer than the palmaris longus (16.0 cm) and shorter than the plantaris (30.0 cm). The average gracilis tendon diameter (3.8 mm) was smaller than the flexor tendon diameters except for the little finger FDP (3.8 mm). The semitendinosus tendon diameter (4.8 mm) was larger than all flexor tendons with the exception of the middle finger FDP (4.6 mm). Average gracilis and semitendinosus tendon diameters were 3.7 mm and 4.5 mm in males, and 3.8 mm and 4.8 mm in females. This study showed the gracilis tendon to have adequate length and diameter for potential autograft use in staged flexor tendon reconstruction in all digits but the little finger. The semitendinosus is larger in diameter than the native flexor tendons, making it a poor autograft option in cases with an intact pulley system. Common tendon autograft options for flexor tendon reconstruction are variably present, and the use of gracilis and semitendinosus autograft present potential graft options.

Remnant-Preserved Single-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Augmentation in Multi-ligamentous Knee Reconstruction.

This study was conducted to present remnant-preserving anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) augmentation as a useful option for partial ACL injury in multiligament knee injury (MLKI) cases, which may also contribute to conserving graft resources. The present study involved patients diagnosed with MLKI at our institute from Spring 2006 to February 2021. A total of 71 MLKI cases were provided surgery due to knee instability and disability. For every patient, an arthroscopic diagnostic was performed to ensure that ACL tear and a remnant were present. When the ACL remnant was classified into group 2, 3, or 4 of Nakamae's classification, remnant-preserved single bundle ACL augmentation was performed. Graft selection and the combination of injured ligaments were evaluated. The side-to-side difference under an anterior tibial load of 134 N with an arthrometer and the leg symmetry index at 60 degrees/s were measured. The present procedure was performed for five cases (male/female: 4/1, mean age: 33.6 years). The mean follow-up period was 26.4 months. The combination of torn ligaments was as follows: 3 cases of ACL + medial collateral ligament, one case of ACL + posterior cruciate ligament, and one case of ACL + posterolateral corner. An ACL augmentation graft was performed using an ipsilateral gracilis tendon in 2 cases, a contralateral full semitendinosus tendon in 2 cases, and the ipsilateral distal 1/2 of the semitendinosus tendon in 1 case. The mean side-to-side difference was 1.07 ± 0.4 mm. The mean leg symmetry index was 82.6 ± 12.2% in knee extension and 96.3 ± 9.9% in knee flexion. Although the present study was a small case series, the remnant-preserved single-bundle ACL augmentation for MLKI surgery provided good clinical outcome and conserved the graft resource. Even in the MLKI case, this technique is one of the useful surgical options. The level of evidence of this study is level IV (case series).

Anatomic reconstruction using the autologous gracilis tendon achieved less sprain recurrence than the Broström-Gould procedure but delayed recovery in chronic lateral ankle instability.

To compare the return-to-activity and long-term clinical outcomes between anatomic lateral ligament reconstruction using the autologous gracilis tendon and modified Broström-Gould (MBG) procedure in chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). It was hypothesised that there was no difference between the two techniques. From 2013 to 2018, 30 CLAI patients with grade III joint instability confirmed by anterior drawer test underwent anatomic reconstruction of lateral ankle ligament with the autologous gracilis tendon (reconstruction group) in our institute. Another 30 patients undergoing MBG procedure (MBG group) were matched in a 1:1 ratio based on demographic parameters. The post-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, Tegner activity score, Karlsson-Peterson score, surgical complications, return-to-activities and work were retrospectively evaluated and compared between the two groups. All subjective scores significantly improved after the operation (all with p < 0.001) without difference between the two groups (all n.s.). The MBG group showed a significantly higher proportion of postoperative sprain recurrence than the reconstruction group (26.7% vs. 0, p = 0.002). The reconstruction group showed a significantly longer period to start walking with full weight-bearing (10.5 ± 6.9 vs. 7.0 ± 3.1weeks, p = 0.015), jogging (17.1 ± 8.9 vs. 12.7 ± 6.9weeks, p = 0.043) and return-to-work (13.5 ± 12.6 vs. 8.0 ± 4.7weeks, p = 0.039) than the MBG group. Both anatomic reconstruction using the autologous gracilis tendon and MBG procedure could equally achieved reliable long-term clinical outcomes and the tendon reconstruction showed a relatively lower incidence of postoperative sprain recurrence but delayed recovery to walking, jogging and return-to-work. The MBG procedure was still the first choice with rapid recovery but the tendon reconstruction was recommended for patients with higher strength demand. III.

Новый метод хирургического лечения пациентов с привычным вывихом надколенника: анализ первичных результатов

Introduction Surgical options used to treat recurrent patellar dislocations (RPD) in different countries include release of the lateral tendon retinaculum, tibia medialization, fixation of an autologous graft to the hip, transplantation of the ipsilateral gracilis tendon and medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction. The methods may not completely eliminate the dislocation to ensure patellar stability and we undertook to develop a new surgical technique. The objective was to identify advantages and disadvantages of the new methodology for the treatment of RPD through comparative analysis. Material and methods 28 patients with RPD of varying degrees treated in the Department of Sports Trauma, State Institution "RSNPMCTO" the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan between 2015 and 2018 were reviewed. Dislocations were graded as average (grade 2; n = 3, 10.7 %) and grade 3 (n = 25; 89.3 %). Five (17.8%) of 28 patients had impaired m. vastus medialis and 23 (82.2 %) were diagnosed with impairment and defect of the retinaculum patella mediale. The patients underwent physical, laboratory, radiological and instrumentation (ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic arthroscopy) examinations. Results Arthroscopic procedure of the knee joint with autoplasty patellar stabilization using the m. gracilis tendon and a biodegradable screw resulted in good outcomes (n = 27; 96.4 %) and a fair result in a patient (3.6 %) with grade 3 RPD due to synovitis, bursitis and pain in the knee joint; no poor results reported. Conclusion The patients could completely regain the limb functions through arthroscopic procedure of the knee joint with autoplasty patellar stabilization using the m. gracilis tendon and a biodegradable screw, optimization of surgical treatment strategy with regard to severity of displacement and injury to the soft tissues at the medial aspect of the patella.

Comparative Analysis of Arthroscopic Tight Rope ACL Reconstruction Using four Strand Isolated Semitendinosus Graft and Quadrupled Combined Hamstring Graft.

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using hamstring autograft is a quite a popular surgical procedure. But there is a conflict regarding the use of isolated semitendinosus graft or a combined hamstring graft. We did a comparative analysis of the functional outcome after ACL reconstruction performed with four strand semitendinosus graft and a combined hamstring graft over tightrope. Two groups of 30 patients each with similar demographic profiles, presenting with symptoms of instability after chronic ACL tear were included. A standard single bundle arthroscopic ACL reconstruction was performed by using four-strand semitendinosus graft in Group A and combined hamstring graft in Group B patients. Clinical and functional outcome analysis was done using quantitative anterior tibial translation measurement and Lysholm score. The mean age of subjects in group A was 29 years and in Group B was 28 years. The semitendinosus graft length was insufficient in 13.33% cases in group A. The improvement in Lysholm score and the decrease in the tibial translation were comparable in both the groups at one year of follow-up. No added comorbidities were noted in additional removal of gracilis tendon in group B patients. Isolated semitendinosus four-strand autograft can be used for arthroscopic single bundle ACL reconstruction when adequate graft length is obtained. However, one should not be hesitant in additional removal of gracilis tendon when needed. In terms of functional outcome and patient satisfaction, both the graft configurations stand the same.

Semitendinosus vs Gracilis Grafts With 1- vs 2-Tunnel Techniques for Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction: A Biomechanical Study

Background: Despite the evolution of acromioclavicular joint surgery to a more anatomic coracoclavicular (CC) ligament reconstruction, no definitive guidance regarding the number and position of bone tunnels in the clavicle, as well as the ideal graft choice, is established. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to biomechanically compare the reconstruction of the CC ligament complex between gracilis- and semitendinosus-tendon grafts in 1- and 2-tunnel techniques. It was hypothesized that the gracilis tendon graft will provide comparable primary stability in both tunnel techniques while utilizing a smaller tunnel diameter. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 24 cadaveric shoulders (13 men, 11 women; 66 ± 7.5 years) were randomly allocated to 4 repair groups: gracilis with 1 tunnel (GT-1), gracilis with 2 tunnels (GT-2), semitendinosus with 1 tunnel (ST-1), and semitendinosus with 2 tunnels (ST-2). First, specimens were tested for native anterior, posterior, and superior translations. Then, specimens were randomly assigned to 1 of the 4 CC reconstruction groups before undergoing the same testing, followed by cyclic loading and load to failure (LTF). Results: The GT-2 reconstruction demonstrated significantly less translation when compared with ST-2 in anterior (P = .024) and posterior (P = .048) directions. GT-1 and ST-2 both showed significantly less translation than ST-1 in anterior and superior directions (P < .001). All reconstructions demonstrated less superior translation compared with native testing, with GT-1 and ST-2 significantly less than ST-1 (P < .001). There were no significant differences for peak displacement and LTF between groups. Conclusion: Gracilis tendon grafts using a 1- or 2-tunnel technique for CC ligament reconstruction provided comparable translation, displacement, and LTF as corresponding semitendinosus grafts. Therefore, the gracilis tendon should be considered as a biomechanical equivalent graft choice for the reconstruction of the CC ligament complex. Clinical Relevance: In a cadaveric model, the gracilis tendon demonstrated adequate fixation with minimal translation in CC ligament reconstruction while utilizing smaller diameter bone tunnels, which may help minimize the risk of complications such as loss of reduction and fracture.

Comparaison clinique et radiologique des vis d’interférence biorésorbables en verre bioactif versus en acide poly-L-lactique/hydroxyapatite pour la fixation de greffe tibiale dans la reconstruction du ligament croisé antérieur

BackgroundLigament reconstruction is still the main treatment modality for patients with a complete ligament rupture. The semitendinosus tendon, alone quadrupled or double folded and combined with the gracilis tendon is still the most frequently used autologous graft for a reconstructive procedure. Absorbable interference screw usage has gained popularity in the past decade because they create less artifacts during MR imaging and tend to osteointegrate over the years, arguably leading to a more anatomic fixation. The purpose of this study was to compare the 5-year radiological and clinical results of two different tibial graft fixation screws. HypothesisWe hypothesized that bioabsorbable interference screws made of bioactive glass would lead to higher rates of osteointegration, better overall clinical results, less foreign body reaction rates and less tibial tunnel widening when compared to the poly-L-lactic acid/hydroxyapatite (PLLA-HA) screws. Patients and methodsFifty-one patients treated with an anatomic single bundle ACL reconstruction between June 2015 and July 2016 at our institution were included in the study. The tibial graft was fixed with a bioactive glass screw in 24, and with a PLLA-HA in 27 patients. Tibial tunnel widening, foreign body reaction, osteointegration and resorption rates were evaluated and compared on a magnetic resonance scan at a minimum of 5 year postoperatively. Overall clinical results and side-to-side difference on KT-1000 were also analyzed in-between groups. ResultsTibial tunnel widening was similar for both groups. Foreign body reaction, while not statistically significant, was less aggressive when bioactive glass screws were used. Osteointegration and resorption rates of the bioactive glass screws were significantly higher than the PLLA-HA group (p=0.000). While all patients showed an overall improvement on postoperative scores (p=0.000), patients with a bioactive glass interference screw had statistically higher translational stability with KT-1000, compared to the poly-L-lactic acid/hydroxyapatite group (p=0.001). DiscussionAt a minimum of 5years, compared to conventional PLLA-HA interference screws, 45S5 bioactive glass screw provide higher resorption rates, are more highly biodegradable and provide overall good clinical results. Level of evidenceIII.

Semitendinosus and Gracilis Autograft for Neglected Patellar Tendon Rupture: A Surgical Reconstruction

BACKGROUND: Neglected patellar tendon rupture is an extremely rare case among orthopedic injuries that severely compromises the function of the extensor mechanism of the knee. Therefore, a prompt and accurate diagnosis of a ruptured patellar tendon are a key to efficacious management, because a treatment delay is often associated with unsatisfactory functional outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of an adult male patient with traumatic patellar tendon rupture after 9 months of a motorcycle accident. The patient underwent reconstruction surgery using semitendinosus and gracilis tendon augmentation. This procedure restores the anatomical position of the patella and prevents extensor lag. At a 3-month follow-up, a full recovery of the structure and function of the extensor mechanism was perceived. The patient could return to normal daily activities following rehabilitation protocol. CONCLUSION: Semitendinosus and gracilis tendon autograft is the technique of choice to be applied in the surgical reconstruction of neglected patellar tendon rupture.

Does harvesting of the semitendinosus tendon really spare the gracilis in pediatric anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

Purpose:The use of isolated semitendinosus tendon for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction bears several advantages and is popular worldwide. It assumes that the gracilis tendon is spared. The aim of the study was to measure the surface area of the gracilis tendon in children who had undergone arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using a semitendinosus tendon graft. Our hypothesis was that the gracilis tendon may be unintentionally and iatrogenically sectioned due to the anatomical proximity and the small size of the patients.Methods:Fifty patients who had undergone a magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 year from the surgery and who had been operated between January 2017 and March 2019 were included in this prospective series. The surface area of the gracilis tendon was measured on fat-saturated T2-weighted axial views at the widest point of the medial epicondyle of the femur. Age, sex, body weight, and height were documented.Results:One hundred magnetic resonance imaging of 50 knees were reviewed, from 34 boys (68%) and 16 girls (32%). The mean age was 14.5 years (10–18). The gracilis was visualized in all cases at 1 year postoperatively. The average tendinous surface area of the gracilis before the surgical procedure was 7.13 mm2 versus 8.73 mm2 at 1 year, representing an increase of 1.6 mm2 (p = 0.0003).Conclusions:This study demonstrated that harvesting of the semitendinosus for the purpose of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction was a safe technique that preserves the gracilis.Level of evidence:III.

High return to sports and return to work rates after anatomic lateral ankle ligament reconstruction with tendon autograft for isolated chronic lateral ankle instability

PurposeTo evaluate clinical outcomes as well as return to sports (RTS) and return to work (RTW) rates following anatomic lateral ankle ligament reconstruction with a tendon autograft for chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) in a high-risk population, and to compare these outcome parameters between patients having received a gracilis tendon autograft (GT) and free split peroneus brevis tendon (PBT) autograft.MethodsTwenty-eight consecutive patients, who were diagnosed with CLAI, presenting with ≥ 1 risk factor (ligamentous hyperlaxity, insufficient substance of native ligament and/or high-demand athlete), who underwent ankle ligament reconstruction with a tendon autograft between January 2011 and December 2018, were included in this retrospective study. At 63.7 ± 28.0 months (24–112), 23 patients with a mean age of 29.7 ± 10.9 years were available for follow-up. The Karlsson Score, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), the Tegner Activity Scale and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were collected at a minimum follow-up of 24 months. RTS and RTW were evaluated by questionnaire. A subgroup analysis with regard to the graft used for ankle ligament reconstruction (GT versus PBT) was performed.ResultsPatients reported a Karlsson score of 82.1 ± 17.5 (37–100), a FAOS score of 87.8 ± 8.4 (73–99), a median Tegner activity scale of 5.0 (IQR 4–6) and a VAS for pain of 0.5 ± 0.9 (0–4) at rest and of 2.0 ± 2.1 (0–7) during activities at final follow-up. Postoperatively, 96% of patients had returned to sports after 8.3 ± 6.2 months. All patients (100%) had returned to work at 3.5 ± 5.7 (0–24) months, with 87% reporting an equal or improved working ability compared to that preoperatively. Postoperatively, exercise hours per week were significantly reduced compared to preoperatively in patients with a split PBT (n = 12; 13.0 ± 12.9 to 5.6 ± 6.4 h, p = 0.038) autograft as opposed to patients with a GT autograft (n = 11; 13.1 ± 8.7 to 12.4 ± 7.1 h, n.s.). No other group differences were observed.ConclusionGood patient-reported outcomes as well as excellent RTS and RTW rates can be achieved in high-risk patients undergoing ankle ligament reconstruction with a tendon autograft for CLAI. These results may be helpful in preoperatively managing patients’ expectations regarding sports- and work-related outcomes and provide tangible data on the expectable time frame of the individual return to sports and work trajectory.Level of evidenceIV.

Knee Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction With Knotless Soft Anchor: Shallow Fixation Prevents Tunnel Convergence

We describe an independent anterolateral ligament reconstruction technique using the gracilis tendon that can be added to any type of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction procedure. No additional tunnels are drilled. The dual-strand graft is attached to the bone cortex with a nonmetallic, knotless anchor using minimally invasive incisions. For the ACL reconstruction, the semitendinosus is attached to the femur with an ENDOBUTTON and to the tibia with a BioComposite interference screw. The ACL remnant is preserved to improve ligamentization, and the ACL graft is pedicled to the tibia to encourage its vascularization.

Single and double hamstring tendon anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction – A prospective, comparative cohort study

Objectives: Excellent knee stability is necessary to achieve good postoperative clinical results in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, there is little evidence in the literature regarding hamstring graft choice for ACL reconstruction. Our study intended to debate the best autograft choice for this procedure. We aimed to examine the functional and biomechanical outcomes of three different autografts used in ACL reconstruction, namely, Semitendinosus and Gracilis quadrupled (STGR) autograft, tripled or quadrupled ST autograft, and tripled Gracilis tendon autograft (GR). Methods: We conducted an observational, comparative, prospective cohort on 248 ACL reconstructed patients spanning 2 years (2009–2010) and evaluated the primary outcome with KT-1000 knee arthrometer and secondary outcomes with International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Tegner ctivity cale, and Lysholm score. Results: The data suggest a statistically significant increase in IKDC score and Lysholm score in the GR group – standing for better subjective outcomes like pain – compared to the STGR and ST groups (P = 0.0018 and P = 0.0034, respectively) and statistically non-significant differences between the STGR and ST groups for all evaluated parameters. KT-1000 side-to-side evaluation demonstrates that STGR autograft offers less structural knee laxity compared to GR autograft in ACL reconstruction (P = 0.044). Conclusion: The study found that STGR autograft offers more stability to the knee compared to the GR autograft alone yet is associated with inferior subjective outcomes compared to the GR group. GR autograft is a valid substitute for ACL reconstruction, especially in patients presenting with hyperlaxity or demanding lower functional performance.

Return to sports and short-term follow-up of 101 cases of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using gracilis tendon autograft in children and adolescents.

An acute patellofemoral dislocation is the most common acute knee injury in children. Recent studies suggest up to 40% of immature patients may develop recurrent instability. MPFL reconstruction has become a mainstay for the treatment of patellofemoral instability. Aim of the recent study is to show our experiences of MPFL reconstruction in patellar instability in immature patients using a gracilis autograft in respect to return to sport, growth plate disorders and short-term results. A total of 101 patients (50 females, 51 males) were included in this retrospective study. Mean age at time of operation was 14.8 ± 1.6years. Primary outcome measures included patient satisfaction, Kujala score, recurrent instability, return to normal activity, return to sports, clinical leg axis and complications. Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis and alpha was set at p < 0.05 to declare significance. At a mean follow-up of 32.0 ± 12.1months 90/101 patients could be followed-up. 84% of all patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the result at latest follow-up. 86.6% of all patients were able to return to sports, 2.3% had a relevant deviation of the clinical leg axis, but symmetrical. In sum complication rate was 2.9%. Redislocation rate was 0.9% (1/101). Kujala Score improved significantly from 47.1 preoperatively to 85.3 postoperatively (p < 0.01). Anatomic MPFL reconstruction using gracilis tendon allograft tissue is a safe procedure in children and adolescents with low risk of recurrent instability.

The different subtalar ligaments show significant differences in their mechanical properties

BackgroundToday, the relative contribution of each ligamentous structure in the stability of the subtalar joint is still unclear. The purpose of this study is to assess the material properties of the different ligamentous structures of the subtalar joint. MethodsEighteen paired fresh-frozen cadaveric feet were used to obtain bone–ligament–bone complexes of the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), the cervical ligament (CL) and the anterior capsular ligament-interosseous talocalcaneal ligament complex (ACaL-ITCL). The samples were subjected to uniaxial testing to calculate their respective stiffness and failure load. ResultsThe stiffness of ACaL-ITCL complex (mean: 150 ± 51 N/mm, 95% confidence interval (CI): 125.0–176.6 N/mm) was significantly higher than both CFL (mean: 55.8 ± 23.0 N/mm, CI: 43.8–67.7 N/mm) and CL (mean: 63.9 ± 38.0 N/mm, CI: 44.4–83.3 N/mm). The failure load of both the ACaL-ITCL complex (mean:382.5 ± 158 N, CI: 304.1–460.8 N) and the CFL (mean:320.4 ± 122.0 N, CI: 257.5–383.2 N) were significantly higher than that of the CL (mean:163.5 ± 58.0 N, CI: 131.3–195.7 N). The injury pattern demonstrated a partial rupture in all CFL and ACaL-ITCL specimens and in 60% of the CL specimens. ConclusionThe CFL, CL and ACaL-ITCL show significant differences in their intrinsic mechanical properties. Both the CFL and CL are more compliant ligaments and seem to be involved in the development of subtalar instability. Based on the material properties, a gracilis tendon graft seems more appropriate than a synthetic ligament to reconstruct a CL or CFL. A partial rupture was the most commonly seen injury pattern in all ligaments. A fibular avulsion of the CFL was only rarely seen. The injury patterns need further investigation as they are important to optimize diagnosis and treatment.

Clinical and radiological comparison of bioactive glass and poly-L-lactic acid/hydroxyapatite bioabsorbable interference screws for tibial graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BackgroundLigament reconstruction is still the main treatment modality for patients with a complete ligament rupture. The semitendinosus tendon, alone quadrupled or double folded and combined with the gracilis tendon, is still the most frequently used autologous graft for a reconstructive procedure. Absorbable interference screw usage has gained popularity in the past decade because they create less artifacts during MR imaging and tend to osteointegrate over the years, arguably leading to a more anatomic fixation. The purpose of this study was to compare the 5-year radiological and clinical results of two different tibial graft fixation screws. HypothesisWe hypothesized that bioabsorbable interference screws made of bioactive glass would lead to higher rates of osteointegration, better overall clinical results, less foreign body reaction rates and less tibial tunnel widening when compared to the poly-L-lactic acid/hydroxyapatite (PLLA-HA) screws. Patients and methodsFifty-one patients treated with an anatomic single bundle ACL reconstruction between June 2015 and July 2016 at our institution were included in the study. The tibial graft was fixed with a bioactive glass screw in 24, and with a PLLA-HA in 27 patients. Tibial tunnel widening, foreign body reaction, osteointegration and resorption rates were evaluated and compared on a magnetic resonance scan at a minimum of 5 year postoperatively. Overall clinical results and side-to-side difference on KT-1000 were also analyzed in-between groups. ResultsTibial tunnel widening was similar for both groups. Foreign body reaction, while not statistically significant, was less aggressive when bioactive glass screws were used. Osteointegration and resorption rates of the bioactive glass screws were significantly higher than the PLLA-HA group (p=0.000). While all patients showed an overall improvement on postoperative scores (p=0.000), patients with a bioactive glass interference screw had statistically higher translational stability with KT-1000, compared to the poly-L-lactic acid/hydroxyapatite group (p=0.001). DiscussionAt a minimum of 5 years, compared to conventional PLLA-HA interference screws, 45S5 bioactive glass screw provide higher resorption rates, are more highly biodegradable and provide overall good clinical results. Level of evidenceIII.

Correction: Innovative surgical concept for septic sternoclavicular arthritis: case presentation of a simultaneous joint resection and stabilization with gracilis tendon graft including literature review

Correction: Innovative surgical concept for septic sternoclavicular arthritis: case presentation of a simultaneous joint resection and stabilization with gracilis tendon graft including literature review