Hamstring Graft Research Articles

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.

Comparison of a full tibial tunnel or an all-inside technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: An observational study.

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction performed with either a full tibial tunnel technique or an all-inside technique. Data from patients with ACL rupture who underwent ACL reconstruction using autogenous hamstring tendon grafts between January 2019 and July 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 24 months. Preoperative and postoperative International Knee Documentation Committee scores, Lysholm knee scores, visual analog scale pain scores, Tegner activity scale scores, C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell (WBC) count, D-dimer levels, and neutrophils were recorded. At the final follow-up, side-to-side differences were assessed with the pivot shift test, Lachman test, anterior drawer test, and a knee laxity-testing device. This study included 135 patients with ACL rupture, with 62 patients (43 males and 19 females, mean age: 34.42 ± 12.79 years) undergoing the full tibial tunnel technique, and 73 patients (58 males and 15 females, mean age: 32.41 ± 11.01 years) undergoing the all-inside techniques (AITs). There were no significant differences in postoperative International Knee Documentation Committee scores, Lysholm knee scores, or Tegner activity scale scores, except at postoperative 6 months. visual analog scale pain scores showed significant improvement in patients that underwent the AIT compared to the full tibial tunnel technique at postoperative 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month; however, there were no significant differences at postoperative 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, WBC count, D-dimer levels, and neutrophils were significantly lower in patients that underwent the AIT compared to the full tibial tunnel technique at postoperative 1 month, but there were no other significant differences in these outcome measures, except for WBC count at postoperative 3 months. There was no significant difference in knee stability at the last follow-up. In ACL reconstruction, functional outcomes following the AIT are satisfactory and similar to the total tibial tunnel technique, but patients experience less pain and a reduced early postoperative inflammatory response. These results highlight the promising potential of AITs in the clinical management of ACL rupture and advocate for their widespread adoption.

Patellar Tendon Reconstruction Using Hamstring Graft: A Case Report

Background: Patellar tendon ruptures presenting in a chronic setting are rare events that impose technical surgical challenges due to proximal retraction of the patella, quadriceps muscle atrophy and contracture, and peripatellar adhesions. Various reconstruction techniques have been described using different grafts and fixation methods; however, there is a paucity of reported out- comes and there is no consensus on standard of care. Indications: The patient is a young female of 18yrs who presented with a history of trauma to right knee and was diagnosed with chronic patellar tendon tear. The patient was indicated for patellar tendon reconstruction with autologous hamstring tendon graft due to chronicity of the injury. Method: Patellar tendon reconstruction using hamstrings graft and fixing with anchor suture and interference screw. Result: Achieving normal patella tendon height and complete range of motion with restoration of extensor mechanism of knee. Conclusion: Knee extensor mechanism disruptions necessitate prompt surgical correction. In patients with poor tendon quality and/or a history of knee arthroplasty, primary repair should be supplemented with autograft or allograft. Early repairs yield better results than late interventions, which necessitate intricate reconstructions to reestablish the extensor mechanism's continuity. Achieving early osteointegration of the graft is important in case of tendon reconstructive procedures such as in this case as it leads to better outcomes in terms of rehabilitation and early progress to daily activities. Keys Words: tendon injuries, patellar tendon reconstruction, chronic patellar tendon tear, hamstring graft, hamstring tendon autograft, interference screw

Relationship Between Single-Leg Vertical Jump and Drop Jump Performance, and Return to Sports After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Hamstring Graft.

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), asymmetry is likely to persist in single-leg (SL) vertical jump and drop jump performance than in SL hop distance. However, its relationship with the return to sport (RTS) remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between vertical jump performance after primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft and RTS at a pre-injury competitive level. Cross-sectional study. Patients who underwent primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft were recruited for this study. Participants who returned to pre-injury competition after ACLR were recruited at least eight months postoperatively. Knee condition was assessed, including joint laxity, range of motion, muscle strength, and knee pain intensity during sports activities. Performance variables were also assessed, including SL hop distance, jump height in SL vertical jump, and reactive strength index (RSI; jump height/contact time) in SL drop jump. Participants were asked to subjectively report whether they had returned to the same level of competition as pre-injury and their perceived sport performance intensity. Those who answered "Yes" to the dichotomous question and had a postoperative subjective athletic performance of > 80% were categorized into the Yes-RTS group. The primary outcome was the ability to achieve RTS at the preinjury level. Sixty-five patients (female, 35; male, 30) at 13.0 (13.0) [median (interquartile)] months after ACLR participated in this study. Thirty-nine (60%) were assigned to the Yes-RTS group. Regarding knee conditions, the No-RTS group had a significantly higher knee pain intensity, as assessed using a numerical rating scale (p<0.001, effect size -0.45). In the performance tests, the No-RTS group exhibited a significantly lower limb symmetry index of RSI during the SL drop jump compared to the Yes-RTS group (p=0.002, effect size 0.81). Patients unable to achieve RTS after primary ACLR using hamstring grafts are more likely to exhibit asymmetric performance during the SL drop jump test, suggesting the significance of assessing jump symmetry when evaluating post-ACLR rehabilitation success. 3c.

Correlation between antropometric status with Hamstring graft Sizes for ACL reconstruction

Correlation between antropometric status with Hamstring graft Sizes for ACL reconstruction

One type of graft for reconstruction of the ACL does not suit all patients based on their characteristics and sports: a scoping review.

The selection of graft type for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction remains a topic of debate, taking into consideration patient characteristics, as well as the type and level of sports involvement. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate patient characteristics that might influence the selection of graft type for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. PubMed and Scopus were searched to identify articles for inclusion. All included studies focused on one or more patient characteristics involved in the decision-making process regarding anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction autograft, including the hamstrings tendon (HT), patellar tendon (BPTB) and quadriceps tendon (QT). Out of the 1,977 initial studies, 27 studies were included in this review. The BPTB graft seems to be the preferred choice in young patients, females, and athletes-especially those engaged in pivoting sports. The HT graft seems to be the preferred choice in less active and older patients, along with those involved in sports where knee extensors are vital. The HT graft is not preferable in patients with a small body height and graft diameter. Moreover, surgeon preferences were also of importance for graft selection. The success of a specific graft type in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is highly dependent on the patient's characteristics and type of sport. Patient characteristics such as age, gender, body height, graft diameter, and the patient's activity level should all be considered when choosing the appropriate graft type.

Reduced Knee Flexion Strength 18 Years After ACL Reconstruction With Hamstring Tendon Versus Patellar Tendon

Background: Bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) and double-looped semitendinosus and gracilis (hamstring) grafts are commonly used for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Short-term and midterm studies show little or no differences between the 2 grafts; however, there are only a few long-term studies to compare results between the 2 grafts. Purpose: To compare the results after using either BPTB grafts or hamstring tendon grafts 18 years after ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence 2. Methods: A total of 114 patients with ACL rupture between 2001 and 2004 were randomized to reconstruction with either a BPTB graft or a hamstring tendon graft. Patients were operated on at 4 major hospitals. The 18-year follow-up evaluation included anterior knee laxity measured with a KT-1000 arthrometer, defined as the primary outcome, while clinical examination (Lachman and pivot-shift tests), isokinetic testing of muscle strength, patient-reported outcome measures, and an assessment of radiographic osteoarthritis using the Kellgren-Lawrence classification were defined as secondary outcomes. Results: A total of 96 patients (84%, 47 BPTB and 49 hamstring grafts) were available for follow-up, 71 of these for clinical examination. Seven of 96 patients were excluded for ACL revision (n = 5) or knee replacement (n = 2) surgery. In total, 25 patients (10 BPTB and 15 hamstring grafts) had undergone additional surgery other than ACL revision or total knee arthroplasty. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of anterior laxity test with KT-1000 arthrometer (primary outcome). In secondary outcomes, no significant differences between groups were reported regarding clinical examination, patient-reported outcome scores, or radiographic osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-4 for patellofemoral joint [18 hamstring and 14 BPTB] or tibiofemoral joint [20 hamstring and 19 BPTB]), while isokinetic testing revealed that the hamstring group had a 10.7% reduction in mean peak flexion torque compared with the BPTB group at 60 deg/s (df = 59; P = .011). At 60 deg/s the mean total flexion work in the hamstring group was reduced by 17.2% compared with the BPTB group (df = 59; P = .002). Conclusion: The flexion strength in the hamstring group was significantly reduced in the operated knee after 18 years. There were no significant differences between the groups regarding subjective outcomes, patient-reported outcomes, range of motion, clinical and instrumented knee laxity, and the development of osteoarthritis. Registration: NCT05876013 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

The effectiveness of quadrupled semitendinosus graft technique in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A network meta-analysis assessing various graft preparation techniques.

This study aims to perform a network meta-analysis of hamstring graft preparation techniques to enhance anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction guidelines and inform clinical decision-making in patients with primary ACL rupture. A review of the literature, from 1 January 1990, to 31 August 2023, was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, focusing on the clinical outcomes of various hamstring graft preparation techniques. Forty-six studies (over 4800 knees) were analysed. Eight graft compositions: doubled hamstring (ST/G)-1978 grafts, doubled hamstring with augmentation (ST/G+A)-586 grafts, tripled semitendinosus (3ST)-124 grafts, quadrupled semitendinosus (4ST)-1273 grafts, five-strand tripled semitendinosus + doubled gracilis (3ST/2GR-839 grafts, six-strand tripled semitendinosus + tripled gracilis (3ST/3GR)-335 grafts, seven-strand quadrupled semitendinosus + tripled gracilis (4ST/3GR)-11 grafts and ≥eight strands-24 grafts were compared, considering graft sizes, laxity, muscle strength, range-of-motion, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), return to sport (RTS) and adverse events. The 4ST grafts fared better than the ST/G grafts in the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sport, KOOS Q and RTS (mean difference [MD], -1.69; p = 0.0159; MD, -1.55; p = 0.0325; MD, -1.93; p = 0.001; odds ratio: 3.13; p < 0.0001). The IKDC differed significantly between the 4ST and ST/G+A groups (MD, 1.88; p = 0.046). The ST/G+A resulted in the lowest knee laxity, surpassing the ST/G, 3ST and 4ST. The ST/G had the smallest diameter (ST/G vs. ST/G+A: MD, 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-1.86, p < 0.0001). Reduced failure rates were noted with the 3ST/2GR (3ST/2GR vs. ST/G: MD, 6.93; p = 0.009) and 3ST/3GR (3ST/3GR vs. ST/G: MD, 53.64; p = 0.006). The ideal hamstring graft for ACLR should be individualized. A 4ST graft is likely to yield good PROMs. For high stability and rapid RTS, adding augmentation to the graft is advisable. The ST/G is the thinnest graft possible. Network meta-analysis of level I-III studies.

Bridge-Enhanced Anterior Cruciate Ligament Restoration: 6-Year Results From the First-in-Human Cohort Study.

Bridge-enhanced anterior cruciate ligament restoration (BEAR) combines suture repair of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with an extracellular matrix implant plus autologous blood to facilitate native ACL healing. The purpose of this study was to compare the 6-year follow-up outcomes of patients who underwent the BEAR procedure with those of a nonrandomized concurrent control group receiving autograft ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in the first-in-human safety study of the BEAR implant (BEAR I trial). Based on the 2-year results, it was hypothesized that isometric hamstring strength after the BEAR procedure would be greater than that after ACLR and that there would be no other differences in outcomes at 6 years. Cohort study, Level of evidence, 2. Ten patients underwent BEAR and 10 received ACLR with a 4-stranded hamstring autograft. Outcomes assessed included the record of subsequent surgeries, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Score, IKDC physical examination grade, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, instrumented knee laxity, functional outcomes (ie, muscle strength assessments and hop testing), and qualitative magnetic resonance imaging assessment. Comparisons between treatments were based on computations of the mean differences and the associated 95% CIs. One patient in the BEAR group and 3 patients in the ACLR group were lost to follow-up. In the period between 2 and 6 years, 1 patient in each group underwent revision surgery. There were no differences between groups at the 6-year follow-up in any of the outcome measures except for isometric hamstring strength, which was approximately equal to that of the contralateral knee in the BEAR group and <44% of that in the contralateral knee in the ACLR group (P < .01). This preliminary study suggests that the outcomes of BEAR and ACLR with a hamstring tendon graft may be similar at the 6-year follow-up and warrants investigation of the BEAR procedure in a larger cohort of patients.

No Clinically Significant Differences in Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction When Comparing Quadriceps, Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone, and Hamstring Autografts of 9 mm or Greater

To determine whether there are patient-reported outcome differences in bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB), quadriceps tendon (QT), and hamstring (HS) grafts of comparable size. We performed a retrospective analysis of global registry data to include all patients who had an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with BPTB, QT, or HS autograft of at least 9 mm in diameter between 2010 and 2021 with complete 1- and 2-year outcome scores. We compared 1- and 2-year postoperative outcome scores (visual analog scale [VAS], Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS] pain, Marx Activity Rating Scale [MARS], Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey [VR-12]) between BPTB, QT, and HS of the same size graft. In total, 2,318 subjects were included in the analysis, and all graft types showed improved patient-reported outcome measures at 1 and 2 years postoperatively when compared with baseline. The KOOS pain score for the BPTB group was significantly better than the HS (between-group difference= 2.71, P < .01) and QT (between-group difference= 2.51, P < .01) groups at 1 year, and the BPTB group was better than HS (between-group difference= 1.88, P < .01) at 2 years. However, the differences were small and not clinically meaningful. When we compared graft type, there were no differences in the percentage of patients who reached Minimal clinically important difference, or clinical scores VAS or MARS at 2-year follow-up. There is no clinically meaningful difference in KOOS-pain, VR-12, VAS, and MARS at 1 and 2 years postoperatively in patients having anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with BPTB, HS, or QT if graft size is at least 9 mm in diameter. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

The prognosis of iatrogenic saphenous nerve injuries during hamstring tendon harvesting in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the long-term outcomes of saphenous nerve (SN) injuries from hamstring tendon harvesting during ACL reconstruction, focusing on clinical results and patient satisfaction after at least two years. Additionally, it investigates the incidence, recovery patterns, and impact of these injuries on functional outcomes, daily activities, and ACL re-rupture rates immediately post-surgery and at final follow-up.Materials and methodsA retrospective review was conducted on patients who had undergone ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon grafts at a single institution between January 2015 and January 2020. The incidence of SN injuries was assessed immediately after surgery and at final follow-up. Additionally, the recovery rate and time were evaluated, and the impact of these injuries on functional outcomes was measured using the Lysholm Knee Score (LKS) and patient-reported effects on daily activities.ResultsOf the 159 patients analyzed, iatrogenic SN injuries were initially observed in 87 (54.7%) patients post-ACLR. By the final follow-up, paresthesia had resolved in 36 (22.6%) patients within an average of 11.1 months. Persistent SN injuries were recorded in 51 (32.1%) patients, affecting various extents of the infrapatellar branch (IPBSN) and the sartorial branch (SBSN) of the saphenous nerve. Patients with persistent SN injuries experienced a significant impact on daily activities and had lower LKS scores compared to those without injuries or with recovered injuries. Furthermore, a higher re-rupture rate was associated with persistent SN injuries.ConclusionsThe study finds that SN injuries during hamstring graft harvesting for ACL reconstruction are common, with a significant portion of patients experiencing persistent sensory deficits for at least two years postoperatively. These injuries are observed to adversely affect patient satisfaction and functional outcomes and to increase the re-rupture rate.

Poster 337: Graft Choice in Adolescents with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Are All Grafts Equivalent?

Objectives: The choice of graft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) plays a crucial role in the outcome of the procedure. Each graft choice has its advantages and disadvantages. Surgeons must consider various factors, including patient age, activity level, and individual anatomy, to make an informed decision on the most suitable graft choice for each patient. The objective of this study was to compare the incidence of retear in patients primary ACLR based upon autograft choice. Secondary objectives of this study were to analyze multivariate trends in retears to identify significant predictors followed by a stratified subanalysis. We hypothesized that hamstring tendon autografts would be associated with an increased number of ACLR graft ruptures. Methods: An institutional review board-approved retrospective cohort study was conducted. Surgical case logs were queried by current procedural terminology code 29888 to identify potential subjects between January 2012 and April 2020. Patients 21 years old and younger underwent primary ACLR within 6 months of injury. Subjects were excluded if they were older than 21 years at the time of injury, had congenital ACL insufficiency, underwent concurrent osteotomy, sustained a multiligamentous injury, or underwent a revision ACLR. Duplicate entries were excluded. Subjects were excluded if records did not have complete data for the purposes of the study. Knee imaging review determined skeletal maturity. Demographic data included age, sex, and body mass index. Each patient’s chart was reviewed to obtain laterality, mechanism of injury, skeletal maturity, and ACLR retear. Intraoperative data such as graft choice, graft size, and concomitant intra-articular pathology was collected. Data was analyzed for incidence of retear, and logistic regression identified predictors of retear. Results: A total of 977 patients were included in final analysis with 50 retears (5.11%). Comparison of graft choice showed significantly increased retears with hamstring tendon (HT) compared to quadriceps tendon (QT) (7.3% vs 3.3% (p = .050)) and patellar tendon (PT) (7.3% vs 2.8% (p = .008)) grafts. Multivariate analysis identified male sex (p &lt; .001), age at injury (p = .016), and smaller graft size (p = .024) as significant variables in cases of ACL rerupture. Analysis stratified by gender did not reveal any significance based upon graft choice, although, HT autograft approached significance (p = .065). During the subanalysis, skeletally immature individuals were significantly more likely to experience a retear (p = .007). Moreover, the incidence of retear based upon graft choice was significant within the skeletally mature cohort (p = .008), with a high incidence of HT retears (6.5%). HT grafts were the smallest grafts on average (8.227 mm). When comparing only QT and HT distributions, the graft size of QT was significantly larger (p &lt; .001); however, the distribution of retears was not significantly different. Conclusions: In patients &lt;22 years of age undergoing primary ACLR, HT autograft was associated with higher incidence of graft rupture compared to PT and QT autografts. There was no difference in retear proportion between QT and PT autografts. Multivariate regression identified male sex, older age at injury, and smaller graft size with increased risk of ACLR retear. There are many variables which portend ACLR graft failure of which sex plays a role; however, in this study, analysis via sex stratification was not significant, likely indicating some amount of variable interaction/confounding where sex as an isolated factor does not significantly influence retears rates. Given the number of variables that affect retears and the low incidence, it will likely take much larger types of meta-analysis studies to identify these traits by using multivariate models with interaction terms. Subanalysis by bone age showed that skeletal maturity does play a role in retears and should be taken into consideration by surgeons. Skeletally mature patients have a comparatively increased risk of graft rupture with HT autograft; moreover, skeletally immature patients incur graft failure not in terms of graft choice, but more so in fixation method as transphyseal and physeal-sparing methods are more technically demanding. Additionally, hamstring tendon grafts were significantly smaller than quadriceps tendon and PT autografts, which may contribute to the higher retear rates seen in this study. To our knowledge, this is the first study with large numbers showing inferiority of HT autograft as compared to both QT and PT autografts, which may be secondary to increased risk with male sex, skeletally mature patients, and smaller graft sizes. [Figure: see text][Figure: see text][Figure: see text][Figure: see text]

Enlightenment on Knee Flexors Strength Loss in Cases of Posterior Knee Pain After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

The persistence and the recurrence of posterior medial knee pain (PKP) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring tendon graft are often overlooked during rehabilitation. Cross-sectional observational study. The study aimed (1)to evaluate the prevalence of these types of PKP before 4months post-ACLR, (2)to measure their consequences on the knee flexors strength, and (3)to evaluate the role of the type of ACLR. From a cohort of patients operated on with hamstring tendon procedures, the persistent and the recurrent PKP were sought at 4months post-ACLR. The evolution of isokinetic muscle strength recovery in PKP subjects was compared with those of nonpainful subjects. The functional deficit was measured at 6/7months post-ACLR by a hop test. Three hundred seventeen subjects (25.8 [6.0]y) were included. At 4months post-ACLR, 2 populations were identified based on the recurrent onset of PKP (PKP+, n = 40) or the absence of knee pain (PKP-, n = 277). The prevalence of PKP was 8.3%. At the fourth month post-ACLR, the PKP+ group had a higher flexor strength deficit compared with the PKP- group (limb symmetry index at 60°/s: 67.2% [12.4%] vs 84.3% [12.6%]; P < .05). At 6/7months, the loss of strength persisted (limb symmetry index at 60°/s: 82.3% [13.4%] vs 87.7% [12.8%]; P < .05). The hop test deficit was comparable, and no difference was shown according to the type of graft. Persistent and recurrent PKP during the rehabilitation period were not uncommon and were associated with a worsening of flexors strength loss on the ACLR side.

MRI evaluation of ATFL and CFL ligamentization after anatomical surgical reconstruction with a hamstring graft

BackgroundChronic ankle instability is frequent complication following ankle sprains. Anatomical reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) with a gracilis autograft is a validated reconstruction technique. The signal-to-noise quotient ankle (SNQA) score evaluates graft maturation with MRI and has been shown to be reproducible and reliable. The goal of this study was to evaluate the process of ligamentization of the anatomical reconstruction of the ankle using the SNQA. The hypothesis was that the SNQA signal of the ATFL and the CFL would decrease over time. MethodsA prospective cohort of patients who underwent arthroscopic anatomical ATFL-CFL reconstruction was included. All patients underwent a follow-up MRI examination 3, 6. and 12 months after surgery and the SNQA score was determined. ResultsTwenty consecutive patients were included. The SNQA score decreased significantly over time for the ATFL (p = 0.001), the CFL (p < 0.001) and for the fibular bone tunnel-graft interface (p = 0.02). The SNQA scores of the ATFL were significantly higher than those of the CFL at 3 months (p = 0.01), 6 months (p = 0.003) and 12 months (p < 0.001), and then those of the fibular tunnel-graft interface at 12 months (p = 0.003). There was no difference in the SNQA score between the CFL and in the fibular graft-bone tunnel interface at any of the follow up periods. ConclusionThere is a process of graft maturation following anatomical ATFL and CFL reconstruction over time, which is faster for the CFL than for the ATFL during the first year. Level of evidenceII

Poster 353: Impact of Meniscus and Cartilage Treatment on Return to Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are a common injury in athletes. ACL tears often occur with other injuries, including cartilaginous injuries. There is a lack of research regarding cartilage treatment on return to sport (RTS) following ACL reconstruction. Purpose: To evaluate the impact of meniscus and/or cartilage (meniscus-cartilage) treatment on return to sport (RTS) rates and time to return to sport following ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon (HT), patellar tendon (BPTB), and quadriceps tendon (QT) grafts. Methods: Competitive and recreational athletes between the ages of 13-24 who had an ACL reconstruction between 2010-2022 were included. Activity level, sport, graft type, cartilage treatment, RTS testing result data, and time to RTS were collected. Chi-square statistics and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used, and statistical significance was set to p&lt;0.05. Results: There were 855 total patients with 354 HT, 361 BPTB, and 140 QT grafts of which 275 did not have meniscus-cartilage treatment and 580 received meniscus-cartilage treatment. Females comprised 52% of ACL reconstructions without meniscus-cartilage treatment and 42% of ACL reconstructions with meniscus-cartilage treatment. The median age was 18 and 17 for those receiving meniscus-cartilage treatment and those without treatment, respectively. Median time to RTS was 27.86 weeks for 151 patients without meniscus-cartilage treatment and 30.49 weeks for 299 patients receiving meniscus cartilage-treatment (p=0.0253). The median 6-meter timed hop ratio was 1.01 for 21 athletes with meniscus-cartilage treatment and 0.965 for 12 athletes without meniscus-cartilage treatment (p=0.0492). Median isokinetic quadriceps testing at 300 degrees per second was 85% of the contralateral leg for 170 athletes with meniscus-cartilage treatment and 85% for 67 athletes without meniscus-cartilage treatment (p=0.7181). Return to previous level of play occurred in 91/104 (87.5%) of those without meniscus-cartilage treatment and 196/220 (89%) of those with meniscus-cartilage treatment (p=0.6742). ACL and non-ACL reinjuries occurred in 18% (49/272) of those without and 20% (118/577) of those with meniscus-cartilage treatment (p=0.4047). Conclusions: Time to clearance to return to sport occurred more quickly in those without meniscus-cartilage treatment. Six-meter timed hop testing results were superior in those receiving meniscus-cartilage treatment. This study will aid orthopaedic surgeons and their athletes while addressing common concomitant injuries during ACL reconstruction.

Poster 356: Patient Perception of Autograft Options in ACL Reconstruction Using a Validated Online Survey Marketplace

Objectives: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is the gold standard treatment for ACL tears. ACL graft reconstruction is commonly performed with an autograft. Common autograft modalities include bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB), quadriceps tendon (QT), and hamstring tendon (HT) grafts. This study sought to evaluate the general population’s perception of the use of BPTB, QT, and HT autografts in ACL reconstruction. Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed utilizing a 36-question survey. Participants were paid, and the survey was distributed via a clinically validated, public, online marketplace in June 2023. After collecting baseline demographics, participants were queried on whether they held a preference for autograft type without additional information. All respondents then sequentially completed a pre-education survey to assess baseline knowledge, reviewed information from an evidence-based information sheet (Figure 1), and a post-education survey to assess understanding of the provided material. Upon completion, participants were again asked which treatment modality they would prefer. Additionally, participants were queried on whether they would be willing to change their preference based on surgeon recommendation. Finally, participants were asked to rank the factor that was most influential to their final decision. Results: In total, there were 491 participants that completed the survey. The average age was 39.9 (range, 19-72), there were 244 males, 241 females and 6 that preferred not to respond. 362 (74%) patients reported earning at least a bachelor’s degree and 362 (74%) reported that they did not work in healthcare. Prior to participant education, 19.3% (n=95) preferred BTB, 18.7% (n=92) preferred QT, 12.6% (n=62) preferred HT, and 53.4% (n=262) had no preference. Following education, a significantly greater number of participants chose each graft type; 37.7% (n=185, p&lt;0.01) preferred BTB, 21.6% (n=106, p&lt;0.01) preferred QT, 13.8% (n=68, p&lt;0.01) preferred HT. Significantly fewer participants had no preference 26.9% (n=132, p&lt;0.01). The average score on the pre-information test was 35.0% while the average score on the post-information test was significantly greater, 50.0% (p&lt;0.01). The most important factors in autograft decision making were surgeon preference (n=357, 72.7%), the provided information (n=104, 21.2%), and previous experiences (n=30, 6.1%). In total, 424 (86.4%) participants said they would switch their graft preference if their surgeon recommended it. Conclusions: The primary finding of this study was that surgeon preference is the most influential factor for the general population when surveyed about their graft preferences for ACL reconstruction with autograft. This study showed that 86% of participants were willing to switch their preference if their surgeon recommended switching. Additionally, significantly more patients chose a specific graft type (BTB, QT, HT) after reading an evidence-based information sheet on the graft types. The findings of this study imply that informed patients are capable of participating in medical decision making with respect to their graft choices in ACL reconstruction, and that providing educational information can help surgeons and patients work together to optimize their care. [Figure: see text]

Temporal changes in tibiofemoral relationship following anterior cruciate ligament injury: Implications for rotational dynamics and clinical outcomes.

This study aims to elucidate changes in the tibiofemoral relationship over time following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, and investigate the correlation between the tibiofemoral relationship and patient-related outcome measures (PROMs). Overall, 203 primary ACL reconstructions were performed using autologous hamstring grafts. Medial and lateral anterior tibial translation (ATT) in the sagittal plane and tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance in the axial plane were measured using pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging and post-operative computed tomography. The difference between pre-operative and post-operative values for each parameter was calculated: ΔMesdial ATT, ΔLateral ATT and ΔTT-TG distance. The correlation between each calculated value and the time elapsed since ACL injury, and the correlation between each calculated value and PROMs-evaluated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-were assessed. Sixty-four patients were enroled. Medial ATT, lateral ATT and TT-TG distance were significantly different pre-operatively compared to post-operative values, with the tibia translating anteriorly and rotating internally relative to the femur. ΔMedial ATT, ΔLateral ATT and ΔTT-TG distance were 1.6, 8.8 and -4.8 mm, respectively. A negative correlation was observed between the ΔTT-TG distance and the time elapsed since the injury (r = -0.44, p < 0.01). No correlation was found between ΔMedial ATT and the time elapsed since the injury, nor between ΔLateral ATT and the time elapsed since the injury. Neither the ΔMedial ATT, ΔLateral ATT, nor ΔTT-TG distance correlated with the pre-operative or post-operative KOOS subscale scores. The tibia underwent internal rotation relative to the femur over time following ACL injury, highlighting the importance of assessing rotational changes in ACL-injured knees. Level Ⅲ.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Reconstruction: Systematic Review of Six-Strand Hamstring Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Biomechanical and Clinical Outcomes

Introduction: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in orthopedics, particularly affecting active individuals and often necessitating surgery. The incidence of ACL injuries is rising, especially in women, comprising half of knee joint injuries. These injuries, common in sports with pivoting actions, can lead to long-term joint issues like osteoarthritis. Advances in surgical methods and understanding of postoperative recovery are crucial for improving patient outcomes, with considerations for graft size, material, and reconstruction technique critical in the rehabilitation process. Material and Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, MEDLINE, and SCOPUS for studies from 2009 to 10 February 2024, focusing on “six-strand hamstring graft” outcomes in ACL reconstruction. Inclusion criteria were English publications on 6HS autografts’ biomechanical and clinical outcomes. Excluded were non-specific, BTB, or hybrid studies, and non-research articles. Out of 347 records, 9 were analyzed after rigorous screening and quality assessment. This review, emphasizing six-strand hamstring autografts, enriches orthopedic knowledge, particularly for ACL surgery. Results: This review evaluated studies on six-strand hamstring (6HS) autografts for ACL reconstruction, encompassing prospective, retrospective, and cadaveric studies with subjects ranging from 12 to 413. Findings indicate that 6HS autografts enhance knee stability and increase graft diameter, correlating with reduced graft failure rates and improved clinical outcomes, including high patient satisfaction and low re-injury rates. Rehabilitation varied, with recovery times quicker due to larger graft sizes, and most studies reported low complication rates, underscoring 6HS autografts’ efficacy in ACL surgery. Conclusions: Performing 6HS autografts in ACL reconstruction reveals that they offer improved knee stability and graft diameter, leading to better clinical outcomes. These autografts are associated with high patient satisfaction and low re-injury rates, suggesting their effectiveness in mimicking native ACL function and enhancing rehabilitation. However, research limitations highlight the need for further long-term, comprehensive studies.

Serial Assessment of Factors Associated With Patient-Reported Outcomes up to 2 Years After ACL Reconstruction Using Autologous Hamstring Tendon: Results From the TMDU MAKS Study.

Understanding the factors related to patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) can lead to more effective interventions. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with PRO scores after ACLR. It was hypothesized that concomitant meniscal treatment and postoperative range of motion (ROM) would be associated with early postoperative PRO scores and that postoperative physical findings would be associated with 2-year postoperative PRO scores. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. We examined the data from the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Multicenter Arthroscopic Knee Surgery (TMDU MAKS) Study for patients who underwent primary ACLR with autologous hamstring tendon grafts; 1252 patients in the TMDU MAKS Study were eligible for inclusion. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Lysholm score of the patients at 3 months (n = 675), 1 year (n = 660), and 2 years (n = 375) postoperatively were assessed using multiple regression to evaluate the strength of the relationship between PRO scores and the following predictor variables: patient-specific factors, treatment-specific factors, and physical findings. Improvement in all PROs significantly exceeded the minimal important change at 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Older age and female sex were predictive of lower PRO scores up to 2 years postoperatively. Concurrent meniscal treatment and limited range of knee motion were predictive of lower PRO scores at 3 months and 1 year postoperatively. A tighter knee (ie, less anterior translation) on the injured side compared with the contralateral knee was predictive of lower KOOS-Quality of Life and IKDC scores at 2 years postoperatively. At all 3 postoperative time points, greater side-to-side difference in knee ROM was predictive of lower PRO scores. Inferior PRO scores were associated with concomitant meniscal treatment and limited postoperative ROM until 1 year postoperatively and with older age and female sex up to 2 years postoperatively. PRO scores were associated with knee stability at all assessed time points.

Pattern of strength recovery differences Exist in Adolescent athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction when using quadriceps versus Hamstring tendon autograft

ObjectivesTo compare the timeline for post-operative quadriceps and hamstrings strength recovery following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using either a quadriceps tendon (QT) or hamstring tendon (HT) autograft. MethodsPatients (≤18 years) who underwent ACLR using autograft QT or HT were included. Isokinetic strength was extracted at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. Effects of time and graft type on quadriceps or hamstring limb symmetry index (qLSI/hLSI) was assessed with two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Between group differences at each time point were assessed with unpaired t-tests. Chi-square and Kaplan-Meir analysis analyzed the proportions of subjects able to achieve ≥90% LSI. ResultsA total of 75 subjects (QT n = 38 HT n = 37,15.8 years) were included. There were significant differences in qLSI, with greater symmetry within the HT group at all time points. A higher proportion of subjects with HT grafts were able to achieve ≥90% qLSI within 12 months of surgery (81% vs 45%, p = 0.001). ConclusionCompared to those with HT autografts, adolescents with QT autografts demonstrate a prolonged timeline for quadriceps recovery. While mean strength values above 90% are achieved, a significantly lower percentage of QT patients are able to achieve 90% qLSI by 12 months post-op.