Hamstring Graft Research Articles

The Dynamic Effect of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency on Patellar Height.

The anterior tibial translation (ATT) in case of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear can lead to dynamic alterations of the extensor apparatus biomechanics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the dynamic effect of isolated ACL deficiency on patellar height. The hypothesis is that the ATT of ACL-insufficient knees dynamically reduces patellar height. Skeletally mature patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using hamstring graft between January and December 2018 were included in this study.The Posterior Tibial Slope (PTS), Caton-Deschamps (CDI), modified Insall-Salvati (MISI), and Blackburne-Peel (BPI) indices were calculated in standard lateral and TELOS X-rays. The mean of the measurements calculated between two observers was used to compare these parameters. 95 patients (M: 57; F: 38; 95 knees) were included in the study with a mean age of 31.8years (16-56years old). Significant patellar height reduction (CDI: 0.11 [-0.32; 0.31]; MISI: 0.09 [-0.66; 0.30]) was reported in TELOS compared with standard lateral knee radiography (p < 0.001). 20.0% of the study knees reported an abnormal CDI and 84.2% (16/19 knees) of them reduced this index to within normal limits in TELOS. 20.0% of the knees with mild patella alta reduced CDI in TELOS but always remained above 1.2. The abnormal ATT in case of ACL-deficient knees results in a lowering effect of the patella in TELOS X-rays. In patients with ACL tear and anterior pain the reconstructive ligament surgery should be performed to avoid also chronic anterior knee pain. Basic Science Study (Case Series). The decrease in patellar height in stress-X-rays compared with standard lateral knee radiography in ACL deficient knees, should be considered as a possible contributing cause of anterior pain in these patients.

Return to play in paediatric & adolescent patients following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BackgroundThere is an increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and subsequent ACL reconstruction in patients <18 years old due to their high levels of sporting participation. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to assess the rate and timing of return to play (RTP) in paediatric and adolescent patients following ACL reconstruction, and to compare the outcomes between those undergoing ACL reconstruction with bone patella tendon bone autograft (BTB) and hamstring tendon (HT) autograft. Study DesignLevel of Evidence: Level III; Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study. MethodsThe institutional ACL registry was screened for patients <18 that had undergone a primary ACL reconstruction. Outcomes were analysed for patients undergoing either a BTB or HT autograft for rate and timing of return to play, functional outcomes and subsequent knee injuries. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Results358 (BTB; 253, HT; 105) patients were followed up for 24-months (95% follow up). 86 athletes (27 BTB; 59 HT) were aged 13–15 years old with no significant difference in RTP rate or timing between graft types, however, there was a difference in ipsilateral re-ruptures (10.2% HT vs 0% BTB p = 0.03). 272 athletes (226 BTB; 46 HT) were aged 16–18 years old with no significant difference in RTP rate or timing between graft types, or ipsilateral re-ruptures (8.7% HT vs 2.7% BTB p = 0.07). Concurrent ligament, meniscal or chondral injuries found at the time was treated as necessary. ConclusionPaediatric and adolescent patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with either BTB or HT had high rates of return to play. This was seen in both subgroups with 13–15-year-olds mostly receiving a HT graft repair and 16–18-year-olds mainly receiving a BTB repair. A moderate re-rupture rate was seen at 24-months. However longer follow up is needed to truly see the long-term impact of such an injury at such a young age.

Assessment of Functional Outcome and Donor Site Morbidity in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Peroneus Longus Autograft

Introduction: Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is one of the most successful surgeries in sports medicine. But the donor site morbidities have been reported with bone patellar tendon bone graft and hamstring tendon graft. The objective of the study is to evaluate the functional outcome of and donor site (ankle) morbidities with full thickness peroneus longus tendon (PLT) autograft in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods: A Prospective study was done in 30 patients with ACL injury. Knee stability and function were evaluated using the Lachman test, pivot shift test, International Knee Documentation Committee score (IKDC) and Lysholm knee score. Donor ankle was assessed using American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) and grading muscle power by Medical Research Council scale. Data collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 &amp; 12 months were compared. Results: The IKDC score was normal or nearly normal in 24 patients and abnormal in 6 patients. The mean Lysholm score had excellent or good results in 24 patients. The Lachman test showed normal findings in 24 patients, 6 patients had 1+ laxity. The pivot-shift test was negative in 22 patients and 8 patients had 1+ glide. The mean AOFAS score was 100±0.0 (preoperatively) and 96.0±9.6 (at final follow up). No patient experienced ankle pain and instability. Conclusion: PLT autograft gave painless stable knee, with a good range of motion. It didn’t have any morbid effect on ankle and gait parameters. So, PLT autograft can be suitable graft with respect to its strength, safety and donor site morbidity. Keywords: ACL, Peroneus Longus Tendon, Knee Arthroscopy

Hamstring tendon autografts and allografts show comparable clinical outcomes and knee stability after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients over fifty years old with no signs of osteoarthritis progression

PurposeThe aim of this study is to compare the functional outcomes and osteoarthritis (OA) progression after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with either hamstring autografts or allografts in people over 50.MethodsThe clinical records of two consecutive cohorts of 61 cases in total over 50 years of age, undergoing ACL reconstruction, were included. The first cohort consisted of 29 allografts; the second cohort consisted of 32 autologous hamstring tendon grafts. The cases were evaluated pre- (T0) and post-operatively at six months (T1), 12 months (T2) and 24 months (T3). Clinical examination included the Lachman test, pivot shift test and objective (Objective IKDC [The International Knee Documentation Committee] score) and subjective clinical scores (Subjective IKDC score, Lysholm score and Tegner activity score). The degree of OA was evaluated using the Kellgren-Lawrence system at the time of the final follow-up, compared to the pre-operative condition.ResultsNo pre-operative difference was found between the two groups (p > 0.05). No statistical difference was noted between the two groups at each follow-up (p > 0.05). At the final follow-up, both the groups significantly improved statistically in all the clinical and functional scores (p < 0.05). In both groups, one graft re-rupture was noted. No progression of OA was noted in both groups at final follow-up (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe graft choice does not influence the outcomes two years after ACL reconstruction in people over 50; thus, both treatments help in regaining knee stability with no signs of OA progression.RegistrationResearchregistry7539–www.researchregistry.com.

Quadriceps tendon vs hamstring autograft in primary ACL reconstruction - a comparative study with minimum two-year follow-up.

Recently there has been growing interest in the quadriceps tendon (QUAD) as a valid option for reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACLR). The aims of the study is to compare the outcomes achieved in anatomic ACLR involving QUAD vs. Hamstring (HT) autografts. A total of 52 consecutive patients underwent an ACLR, 25 patients with QUAD graft and 27 with HT graft. The same surgical technique, fixation method and postoperative protocol were used in both groups. The following parameters were evaluated: functional status (Lysholm, Tegner, subjective IKDC scores), joint stability (Lachman and pivot shift tests), surgical reoperation rate, complications, degree of satisfaction and return to previous level of activity. Descriptive statistics were analysed using the Student's t-test. Forty four patients were evaluated (20 QUAD, 24 HT), with a mean follow-up of 27.4 months. Two patients were re-operated in the QUAD group (including one ACL revision), and one patient in the HT group required an ACL revision. There were no significant differences between the two groups in postoperative scores: Lysholm (96.05 vs. 96.05), IKDC (86.2 vs. 91.2) and Tegner (6 vs. 5) scales. The percentage of negative Lachman and pivot shift tests was similar in the two groups (45% vs. 50% and 40% vs. 45.8%, respectively). There were no significant differences between the groups in the degree of satisfaction (95.8% vs. 80%, p = .16) or in the percentage who returned to their previous level of activity (62.5% vs. 45%, p = .17). The use of a QUAD graft in ACL reconstruction leads to similar clinical and functional outcomes to those obtained with HT.

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF ARTHROSCOPIC ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION USING TIGHT-ROPE VS. ENDOBUTTON AS FEMORAL FIXATION DEVICES.

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the functional outcome of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using quadrupled hamstring graft with bio-screw as tibial xation device and tight-rope vs. endobutton as femoral xation devices. Subjects And Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, open-labelled comparative study. A total of sixty patients were included in the study and were randomly assigned into two groups(each group containing thirty patients). Group I was treated with tightrope and group II was treated with endobutton. Tightrope is an adjustable suspensory device for femoral xation used in ACL reconstruction and endobutton is xed continuous device for femoral xation. Postoperative follow-up was done at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Results: According to IKDC (international Knee documentation Committee) scoring, around 60%, 33% and 3% were normal, near-normal and poor respectively in both the groups. Conclusion: This study shows that there is no difference in functional outcome whether tightrope or endobutton was used.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with 4-Strand Hamstring Tendon Construct May be Biomechanically Superior to 5-Strand Hamstring Tendon Construct When Using Femoral Suspensory Fixation

PurposeTo compare stiffness, strain, and load to failure of 4- versus 5-strand hamstring anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction human tendon allografts with femoral suspensory and tibial interference screw fixationMethodsAllograft hamstring tendons were used to create 10 four-strand (4S) and 10 five-strand (5S) grafts. Grafts were fixed to a uniaxial electromechanical load system via a femoral cortical suspensory button and a bioabsorbable interference screw in bone analogue. Grafts were cycled from 100 Newtons (N) to 250 N for 1,000 repetitions at 0.5 hertz before load to failure testing. Cyclic displacement was defined as the difference in graft length from the first 20 to 30 cycles compared with the last 10 cycles. Trials were recorded on a high-definition camera to allow for digital image correlation analysis.ResultsCyclic displacement more than 1,000 cycles was significantly lower in the 4S compared with the 5S group (0.87 vs 1.11 mm, P = .037). Digital image correlation analysis confirmed that the fifth strand elongated more than the other 4 strands in the 5S constructs (6.1% vs 3.9%, P = .032). Load to failure was greater in the 4S compared with the 5S group but not statistically significant (762 vs 707 N, P = .35). Stiffness was similar between constructs (138.5 vs 138.3 N/mm, P = .96)ConclusionsCompared with cyclically loaded 4S hamstring grafts, the 5S grafts had significantly increased displacement over time in a model of femoral suspensory and tibial interference screw fixation.Clinical RelevanceAnterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring tendon autograft is a commonly performed surgery with excellent outcomes. It has been shown that graft diameter influences these outcomes. As surgeons use larger grafts, it is important to investigate how these constructs may affect the outcomes of surgery.

The Control of Anteromedial Rotatory Instability Is Improved With Combined Flat sMCL and Anteromedial Reconstruction

Background: Both the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) and the deep MCL (dMCL) contribute to the restraint of anteromedial (AM) rotatory instability (AMRI). Previous studies have not investigated how MCL reconstructions control AMRI. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to establish the optimal medial reconstruction for restoring normal knee kinematics in an sMCL- and dMCL-deficient knee. It was hypothesized that AMRI would be better controlled with the addition of an anatomically shaped (flat) sMCL reconstruction and with the addition of an AM reconstruction replicating the function of the dMCL. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A 6 degrees of freedom robotic system equipped with a force-torque sensor was used to test 8 unpaired knees in the intact, sMCL/dMCL sectioned, and reconstructed states. Four different reconstructions were assessed. The sMCL was reconstructed with either a single-bundle (SB) or a flattened hamstring graft aimed at better replicating the appearance of the native ligament. These reconstructions were tested with and without an additional AM reconstruction. Simulated laxity tests were performed at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion: 10 N·m valgus rotation, 5 N·m internal and external rotation (ER), and an AM drawer test (combined 134-N anterior tibial drawer in 5 N·m ER). The primary outcome measures of this force-controlled setup were anterior tibial translation (ATT; in mm) and axial tibial rotation (in degrees). Results: Sectioning the sMCL/dMCL increased valgus rotation, ER, and ATT with the simulated AM draw test at all flexion angles. SB sMCL reconstruction was unable to restore ATT, valgus rotation, and ER at 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion to the intact state (P < .05). Flat MCL reconstruction restored valgus rotation at all flexion angles to the intact state (P > .05). ER was restored at all angles except at 90°, but ATT laxity in response to the AM drawer persisted. Addition of an AM reconstruction improved control of ATT relative to the intact state at all flexion angles (P > .05). Combined flat MCL and AM reconstruction restored knee kinematics closest to the intact state. Conclusion: In a cadaveric model, AMRI resulting from an injured sMCL and dMCL complex could not be restored by an isolated SB sMCL reconstruction. A flat MCL reconstruction or an additional AM procedure, however, better restored medial knee stability. Clinical Relevance: In patients evaluated with a combined valgus and AM rotatory instability, a flat sMCL and an additional AM reconstruction may be superior to an isolated SB sMCL reconstruction.

Influence of hamstring tendon and bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts on worsened patient reported outcome measurements in revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Comparing outcomes between primary and revision reconstructions

BackgroundThis study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and patient reported outcome measurement scales (PROMs) between hamstring tendon (HT) or bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) grafts in each primary and revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Additionally, the clinical outcomes and PROMs between primary and revision surgeries were compared. MethodsA total of 150 patients (109 primary and 41 revision ACL reconstructions) were enrolled and followed up for an average of 3.9 years (2 years minimum). Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome scores (KOOS) were examined as PROMs. Side-to-side differences of anterior knee laxity were assessed using KT-1000 and were recorded at the final follow-up. After categorizing patients into HT and BTB reconstruction groups, regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between revision surgery and changes in KOOS. ResultsIn patients who underwent primary surgery, there was no significant difference in side-to-side differences of anterior laxity and KOOS between HT and BTB grafts. In those who underwent revision surgery, BTB grafts had a higher KOOS for activities of daily living (ADL) than HT grafts (p = 0.032). Comparing primary and revision surgeries, postoperative side-to-side differences of anterior laxity in the revision group were significantly larger than those in the primary group (p = 0.001). The KOOS for sports after overall revision reconstruction was significantly lower than that after primary reconstruction (p = 0.026). Comparing the KOOS after dividing all patients into HT and BTB reconstruction groups, in the HT reconstruction group, postoperative KOOS results were not different in any subscale from BTB grafts. In contrast, the KOOS for sports (p = 0.008) and QOL (p = 0.039) were significantly lower in revision surgery than in primary surgery. Furthermore, regression analysis including multiple confounders in the HT reconstruction group showed revision surgery using HT graft was correlated with worsened KOOS for symptoms (p = 0.012) and sports (p = 0.010). Revision surgery using BTB graft was not correlated with decreased KOOS. ConclusionsThere were no differences between the clinical outcome and KOOS in primary and revision surgery, except for ADL scores following revision ACL reconstruction using BTB graft. Side-to-side difference of anterior laxity and KOOS for sports following revision ACL reconstruction were inferior to those following primary ACL reconstruction.Furthermore, revision ACL reconstruction using HT grafts were correlated with low scores in KOOS for symptoms and sports, while there was no difference of anterior laxity between BTB and HT grafts in revision surgery.

A retrospective cohort study of anterior half peroneus longus tendon vs hamstring tendon for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A minimum 3-years follow-up

Background: The anterior half of the peroneus longus tendon (AHPLT) has recently gained popularity to become the alternate graft choice for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction due to its acceptable biomechanical properties, easy and safe to harvest. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted to compare the results of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with AHPLT and hamstring graft at the minimum of 3 years follow-up. Knee stability, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score and Tegner activity level were collected. Results: There was no clinical significance regarding physical examination. Postoperative IKDC score was higher in the hamstring group compared with AHPLT group. Multiple regression analysis was done. The parsimonious model revealed graft types and gender were the most optimal variables explained postoperative IKDC score. Conclusion: AHPLT graft can be an alternative choice to conventional graft for single anatomic ACL reconstruction with less donor site morbidity, however there must be concern for smaller graft in short and thin female patients.

No differences found in long-term outcomes of a randomized controlled trial comparing ipsilateral versus contralateral hamstring graft in ACL reconstruction.

Contralateral graft harvest in primary ACL reconstruction is relatively uncommon and the long-term comparative of this approach relative to ipsilateral harvest has not been described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ACL graft and contralateral rupture following ipsilateral or contralateral semitendinosus and gracilis (STG) graft harvest at follow-up of a minimum 10years post-reconstruction in the treatment of a complete ACL tear. Patients from a previous randomized trial were evaluated. The primary outcome measures were ipsilateral and contralateral reinjury as well as the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee assessment form, the ACL Quality of Life questionnaire (ACL-QoL) and the Tegner activity scale. Participants completed four different single-leg hop tests and concentric knee flexion and extension strength were assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer. Of the original 100 patients, 50 patients (41.3 ± 9.5years of age, 31 males, 19 females) reported on re-injury at 12.6 ± 1.4years post-operative. Thirty-eight patients returned for full assessment and 12 responded by mail or phone survey. There were no differences between groups for graft rupture, contralateral injury, ACL-QoL score, IKDC categorization, or anterior tibial translation, though both groups experienced a reduction in the Tegner Activity Scale from their preinjury scores. There was no difference in knee flexor and extensor isokinetic concentric strength, or single leg hop test performance. Knee flexor strength limb symmetry index was reduced when measured in the supine relative to the seated position in both groups, indicating persistent deficits in knee flexor strength when measured in the supine position. Contralateral hamstring harvest does not put patients at an increased risk of a contralateral ACL tear and long-term outcomes of ACL reconstruction do not differ based on the side of graft harvest. Contralateral STG harvest may provide a safe alternative surgical option for select patients. Level II.

Changes in Macrophage Polarization During Tendon-to-Bone Healing After ACL Reconstruction With Insertion-Preserved Hamstring Tendon: Results in a Rabbit Model.

Background:Decreasing the proinflammatory M1 macrophages or shifting the polarization status from M1 to M2 phenotype is thought to be beneficial for tendon-to-bone healing. In anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), using an insertion-preserved hamstring tendon (IP-HT) graft compared with a free hamstring tendon (FHT) graft has been shown to reduce graft necrosis and improve healing. However, the role of macrophage polarization at the tendon-to-bone interface is unclear.Hypothesis:ACLR using IP-HT graft would facilitate the phenotype shift from M1 to M2 macrophages at the tendon-to-bone interface.Study Design:Controlled laboratory study.Methods:Unilateral ACLR was performed on 42 healthy New Zealand White rabbits (study group, 21 rabbits with IP-HT graft; control group, 21 rabbits with FHT graft). At days 1, 3, and 7 and weeks 3, 6, 12, and 24 postoperatively, 3 rabbits in each group were sacrificed to investigate and compare the expression of surrogate markers for M1 macrophages (inducible nitric oxide synthase [iNOS] and tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α]) and M2 macrophages (CD206 and transforming growth factor β [TGF-β]) via immunohistochemical staining and evaluation.Results:In the control group, the percentage of iNOS- and TNF-α–positive cells from postoperative day 7 and week 3 increased then decreased by week 6; positive expression of CD206 and TGF-β was weaker and peaked at 3 weeks postoperatively. In the study group, high CD206- and TGF-β–positive expression was observed from weeks 3 to 12 and peaked at week 6, and positive expression of iNOS- and TNF-α was weaker and peaked on day 7. At both 7 days and 3 weeks, the percentages of iNOS- and TNF-α–positive cells in the control group were both significantly higher than in the study group (P ≤ .04 for all). At 6 weeks, the percentages of CD206- and TGF-β–positive cells in the study group were both significantly higher than in the control group (P = .02 and P = .04, respectively).Conclusion:More expression of surrogate markers for M2 macrophages was observed in the tendon-to-bone healing process after ACLR using IP-HT versus FTP graft.Clinical Relevance:Using IP-HT grafts in ACLR may facilitate postoperative healing by shifting the local status of macrophage polarization at the tendon-to-bone interface.

Outcomes of Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for Recurrent Patellar Instability in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Background:Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) -hypermobility type is characterized by generalized hyperlaxity which is considered to be a risk factor for patellar instability. Surgery is discouraged in this subset of patients due to high rates of failure. The outcomes following isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction (MPFLR) for patellar instability in EDS population has not been reported.Purpose:To analyze re-dislocation rates and patient-reported outcomes of isolated MPFLR for recurrent patellar instability in adolescents with EDS. The second purpose of the study was to compare allograft vs autograft for MPFL reconstruction in this specific population.Methods:Between 2010 and 2016, 21 knees in 16 consecutive patients underwent isolated MPFLR reconstruction for recurrent patellar instability. The diagnosis of EDS-hypermobility type, was confirmed by genetics for all patients, with Beighton score as the chief determinants. All patients underwent isolated MPFL reconstruction with hamstring tendon graft. Recurrent dislocation rate and patient-reported outcomes, including Pedi-IKDC, Kujala Score, HSS Pedi-FABS, Banff Instability Instrument 2.0, and KOOS Knee Survey were collected at minimum 2 year follow-up.Results:The mean age of the cohort was 15.4 years (range 13-18 years). All patients were females. 16 knees had atraumatic mechanism of patellar dislocation. 2 patients had an osteochondral fracture. 5 patients underwent bilateral MPFLR. 9 patients had prior surgeries on their knee; 6 were failed patellar stabilization procedures but only 1 was failed MPFLR. 14 knees had hamstring autograft and 7 had hamstring allograft. At minimum 2 years follow-up, 3 of 21 knees (14.2%) had recurrent dislocation. There were no other complications. The mean pedi IKDC, Kujala, Pedi-FABS, and BANFF scores were 66.62 (95% CI 8.52), 73.5 (95% CI 8.68), 6.73 (95% CI 2.86) and 57.15 (95% CI 10.24) respectively. The overall mean KOOS pain subscale was 73.85 (95% CI 9.95) and KOOS symptoms subscale score was 48.54 (95% CI 5.56). There were no significant differences in outcome scores and re-dislocation rates between autograft and allograft (p>0.5). There was no significant correlation between functional score and Beighton score.Conclusion:EDS-related patellar instability are primarily atraumatic in origin without an osteochondral fracture. Patients had significant improvements in function following isolated MPFLR at minimum 2 years follow-up. However, these functional improvements were less than historical controls. Re-dislocation rate of 14% is higher than normal population. EDS and joint hypermobility is not a contraindication to MPFLR but caution is recommended in managing patient expectations.

Physician Preferences on Surgical Technique and Graft Type for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstructions for Pediatric Patients with ACL Injuries

Introduction:The frequency of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries is increasing in pediatric and adolescent patients. Most surgeons elect to reconstruct the ACL in young, active patients to facilitate the resumption of sports and restore stability to the knee. Surgical technique and graft type preferences depend on the surgeon and skeletal maturity of the patient, but there is no clear standard based on age.Hypothesis/Purpose:This study aims to evaluate physicians’ preferences for choosing a surgical plan for pediatric and adolescent patients with an ACL injury.Methods:A voluntary survey link was sent to members of Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine (PRiSM). Consent was obtained by the participants taking part in the survey.Results:Forty-five (n=45) physician responses were included in this analysis. Seven were female, thirty-six male, and one preferred not to answer. Twenty completed pediatric orthopaedic fellowships, six completed sports medicine fellowships, and nineteen completed both pediatric orthopaedic and sports medicine fellowships. Thirty-five respondents reported that greater than 75% of their patients were 18 years old or younger. The majority prefer the over the top technique for 8 to 10-year-old males over the all epiphyseal, partial transphyseal, and transphyseal techniques. The technique preference is split for 11, 12, and 13-year-old males. Twenty-five respondents prefer the partial transphyseal technique for 14-year-old male patients. A majority (n=42, n=43) prefer the transphyseal technique for 16 year old males and skeletally mature males. The technique preferences for female patients 9 years or less is the over the top technique. The technique preference is split for 10, 11, 12, and 13-year-old females. The majority (n=37, n=44, n=44) prefer the transphyseal technique for 14-year-old, 16-year-old, and skeletally mature female patients. The graft preference for males 11 years old or younger is the iliotibial band (ITB). The graft preference for males 12-year-old and older was split among the hamstring, ITB, bone-tendon-bone (BTB) and quadriceps grafts. When looking at the preferred graft for female patients, a majority prefer ITB for patients 10-years-old and younger. The participants’ graft preferences for female patients 11-years-old and older is split.Conclusion:Results of this survey suggest that graft type and surgical technique preferences for pediatric and adolescent patients with ACL tears change based on the patient’s age, with more agreement among surgeons at the extremes of patient ages. Further research is needed to track the impact of each surgical technique and graft choice on pediatric and adolescent patients.Table 1.Surgical Technique and Graft Preferences for Pediatric and Adolescent Patients with ACL Injuries

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.

Minimum 5-Year Outcomes After Primary Segmental Labral Reconstruction for Irreparable Labral Tears in the Hip With Hamstring Grafts: With a Subanalysis Comparing Autograft Versus Allograft

Background: Comparable short-term outcomes have been obtained using hamstring allografts versus autografts after primary segmental labral reconstruction (SLR). Midterm results have not yet been determined. Purpose: (1) To evaluate minimum 5-year patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores in patients who underwent primary SLR with hamstring grafts in the setting of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and irreparable labral tears and (2) to compare the outcomes of hamstring autografts versus allografts in a subanalysis using propensity-matched groups. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Prospectively collected data were retrospectively reviewed for patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy between September 2010 and November 2015. Patients were included if they underwent SLR using hamstring autografts or allografts and had preoperative and minimum 5-year PROs. The exclusion criteria were previous ipsilateral hip surgery or conditions, dysplasia, or Tönnis grade >1. Patients with autograft SLR were propensity matched 1 to 1 based on age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) to patients who underwent SLR using hamstring allografts. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and the Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) were calculated. Results: Overall, 48 patients (N = hips 48) were eligible to be included in this study, and 41 patients (n = 41 hips [85.4%]) had a minimum 5-year follow-up reporting significant improvements in all PROs. Within the entire cohort, 9.8% required a secondary arthroscopy, with a mean time of 19 ± 1.8 months, and survivorship was 82.9%. Of the 41 included patients, 15 underwent an SLR with a hamstring autograft and were matched to 15 patients with labral reconstruction using a hamstring allograft. Groups were similar for sex (P > .999), age (P = .775), and BMI (P = .486). The mean follow-up times were 80.8 ± 25.5 and 66.1 ± 8.3 months (P = .223) for the autograft and allograft groups, respectively. Baseline PROs, preoperative radiographic measurements, surgical findings, and intraoperative procedures were similar. The groups achieved significant and comparable improvements for all PROs (P < .0001), satisfaction (P = .187), and the rate of achieving the MCID and the PASS. However, a tendency for higher postoperative PROs favoring allograft reconstruction was found. Conclusion: At a minimum 5-year follow-up, patients who underwent primary arthroscopic SLR in the context of FAIS and irreparable labra, with either autograft or allograft hamstring tendons, reported significant improvements and comparable postoperative scores for all PROs, patient satisfaction, MCID, and PASS.

High return to sport rate and few re-ruptures at long term in professional footballers after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstrings.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are considered high burden injuries in sports with high pivotal activity, especially for professional footballers. A lack of evidence exists about long-term follow up of professional elite athletes who underwent ACL reconstruction. The purpose of the study is to analyze the return to play and the career of professional footballers who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstrings, to evaluate re-rupture and reoperation at either indexed and contralateral knee, and to assess the long-term clinical subjective outcomes and satisfaction. Twenty-eight professional footballers that underwent 33 ACL reconstructions were retrospectively included in the study. All surgical interventions were performed using hamstring tendons graft and an over the top technique. Inclusion criteria were: inability to compete due to joint instability caused by total or subtotal ACL lesion, patients contracted to a professional football team at time of surgery. Exclusion criteria were: multi-ligament reconstruction or concomitant meniscal allograft transplantation. Patients were contacted by phone and a brief questionnaire about surgery was administered. Subsequently, a Lysholm knee scoring scale was obtained. After that, an online research was performed on publicly available websites in order to retrieve information of the patients included after surgery. In all cases, ACL Reconstruction was performed with hamstring tendons using a non-anatomic Double-Bundle technique in 16 cases (49%), an Over-The-Top Single-Bundle technique in 9 cases (27%), and an Over-The-Top Single-Bundle plus Lateral Plasty technique in 8 cases (24%); moreover, a meniscal lesion was present in 20 cases (61%). Three (9%) of the 33 ACL reconstruction failed (2/16 Double-Bundle, 1/9 Single- Bundle, 0/8 Single-Bundle + Lateral Plasty; p = n.s.), with two of them within 12months from surgery. Other procedures, mainly arthroscopic meniscectomies, were performed in 10 cases (30%). The first official match was played after an average of 8.0 ± 3.6 (4.6-18.2) months in 31 cases (94%). Patients were evaluated after 12.6 ± 3.3years (6.7-17.5) from the indexed ACL reconstruction. The average Lysholm score was 94.2 ± 8.3. In our small case-series, professional soccer players were able to return to play at a competitive level with a hamstrings over the top technique. Patients with long careers had a high percentage of reoperation on the contralateral knee. IV.

ACL Reconstruction With Quadrupled ST Graft and Mini-Invasive Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with hamstring graft is the most common procedure around the world. More recently, the use of the semitendinosus (ST), in a quadrupled arrangement, has been described with great results. Having a thicker tendon instead of double gracilis, ST offers a graft with a diameter superior to 8 mm, thus more closely resembling the native ACL and decreasing the risk of graft failure. It has also been published that preservation of the ACL stump was paramount to obtain better graft vascularization and proprioception. In addition, reconstructing the anterolateral ligament is associated with better results. The aim of this technical note is to present an ACL reconstruction technique using a quadrupled ST graft with a double suspensory fixation associated with ACL stump preservation and a mini-invasive anterolateral ligament reconstruction.

Combined ACL and ALL reconstruction reduces the rate of reoperation for graft failure or secondary meniscal lesions in young athletes.

Graft failure and secondary meniscal tears are major concerns after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in young athletes. The aim was to evaluate the link between ACL reconstruction with and without anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction and outcomes in young patients participating in pivoting sports. This was a retrospective study of data collected prospectively. Patients less than 20years, involved in pivoting sports and undergoing primary ACL reconstruction with a quadruple hamstring tendon (4HT) graft or 4HT graft combined with anterolateral ligament reconstruction (4HT + ALL) were included. Survival analysis was performed to identify the prognostic indicators for reoperation due to graft failure or secondary meniscal lesions. Knee laxity was assessed and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected. A total of 203 patients (mean (± SD) age: 16.3 ± 2years) with a mean follow-up of 4.8 ± 0.9 (range: 3.3‒6.8) years were included. There were 101 4HT and 102 4HT + ALL grafts. Graft rupture rates were 11.9% for 4HT grafts and 5.8% for 4HT + ALL grafts (n.s.). There were 9.9% secondary meniscal procedures for 4HT grafts vs. 1.9% for 4HT + ALL grafts (p = 0.02). With reoperation for graft failure or secondary meniscal lesions at final follow-up as the endpoint, survival was better in the 4HT + ALL group (91.4% vs. 77.8%, respectively; p = 0.03). Absence of ALL reconstruction (HR = 4.9 [95%CI: 1.4-17.9]; p = 0.01) and preoperative side-to-side laxity > 3mm (HR = 3.1 [95%CI: 1.03-9.1]; p = 0.04) were independently associated with an increased rate of reoperations. Mean (± SD) side-to-side laxity was 1.3 ± 1.3mm (range: -2 to 5) for 4HT grafts vs. 0.9 ± 1.3mm (range: -6 to 4.8) for 4HT + ALL grafts (n.s.) 6months post-surgery. The rate of return to the same sport at the same level was 42.2% for 4HT grafts vs. 52% for 4HT + ALL grafts (n.s.). There was no significant difference in subjective outcomes including PROMs between the two groups. Combined ALL + ACL reconstruction reduced the rate of graft failure and secondary meniscal injury in young athletes when compared to ACL reconstruction alone. Subjective results were comparable, with a similar rate of complications. Combined reconstruction should be preferred in this young population. Level IV.

Tibial graft fixation methods and bone tunnel enlargement: A comparison between the TensionLoc implant system and the double-spike plate

Background/objectiveTensionLoc (Arthrex, Naples, Florida, USA), a tibial graft fixation system for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, is expected to apply the preoperatively determined level of graft tension and allow setting of lower initial tension. Considering its mechanism, we hypothesised that TensionLoc would prevent postoperative bone tunnel enlargement (TE) through fixation with lower initial tension. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare TE between ACL reconstructions using the double-spike plate (DSP; Smith and Nephew, Andover, Massachusetts) and TensionLoc implant system. MethodsA total of 40 patients who underwent anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon graft were retrospectively analysed. In the group in which DSP and screw were used, the initial graft tension was set to 40 N at 20° of knee flexion (group D). In the other group in which TensionLoc was used, the initial graft tension was set to 30 N at 20° of knee flexion (group T). Both groups included 20 patients each. Tunnel areas were measured using computed tomography images at one week and three months after surgery, and the TE ratio was calculated according to the following equation: TE ratio (%) = (tunnel area at three months after surgery − tunnel area at one week after surgery)/tunnel area at one week after surgery × 100. ResultsThe femoral TE ratios were significantly higher in group T (80.5% ± 28.8%) than in group D (45.5% ± 34.6%) (p = 0.001). However, the tibial TE ratios did not significantly differ between the two groups. ConclusionCompared with ACL reconstruction using DSP and screw, ACL reconstruction using TensionLoc fixed the graft with lower initial tension but showed greater femoral TE and restricted knee extension in the early postoperative period.