Tendon Graft Research Articles

Re-tensioning Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using an Adjustable Femoral Button

Background: Despite advancements in surgical techniques for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) treatment, persistent functional impairment, reduced quality of life, and limited physical activity participation continue to be common after postoperative rehabilitation. We modify the traditional ACL reconstruction method by using hamstring tendons grafts and re-tensioning them. Indications: This procedure is indicated for patients undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery with soft tissue grafts, utilizing femoral fixation with an adjustable button and tibial fixation with an interference screw. Technique Description: We employ hamstring grafts for ACL reconstruction and perform femoral fixation using an adjustable button. Initially, we pull the graft approximately 10 mm less than the length of the thickest tunnel drill. This allows for subsequent graft traction after tibial fixation. Following tibial fixation, we pull the graft proximally, inserting it a few millimeters further into the femoral tunnel. This re-tensioning increases tension and enhances physical examination results. In addition, we incorporate the braid graft technique to augment the graft's final thickness. Results: This technique yields reduced postoperative residual laxity during physical examinations. Our institution's ethics committee is currently reviewing a clinical study comparing functional outcomes with traditional techniques. Discussion/Conclusion: The ACL re-tensioning technique is easily implemented and involves a subtle modification to the traditional approach, allowing for graft re-tensioning and diminishing the risk of residual laxity post-interference screw fixation. This approach acknowledges that insertion of the interference screw can inadvertently reduce graft tension, counteracting the tension applied during fixation. Consequently, this technique is expected to yield superior clinical outcomes.

Sternoclavicular joint reconstruction for traumatic acute and chronic anterior and posterior instability: Patient-reported outcomes at a minimum of 2 years.

Instability of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) is a rare problem that is often treated closed, with few published outcomes of surgical treatment with tendon graft reconstruction. We reviewed a consecutive series of patients who underwent tendon graft reconstruction for SCJ instability over a 7-year period. Cases with acute fractures or fewer than 2 years of follow-up were excluded. Pre- and postoperative function and pain were assessed using Single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE), simple shoulder test (SST), and visual analog scale (VAS) outcome measures. Thirty cases were included, with 27 (90%) available for follow-up at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. SANE scores improved from a median of 40 to 90. SST scores improved from a median of 3 positive responses to a median of 12 on a 12-point scale. VAS scores decreased from a median of 7 to 0 points. One patient underwent reoperation for recurrent instability and wound dehiscence. Three (11%) patients did not achieve a minimum 30% of maximum possible improvement in SST scores. Tendon graft reconstruction for SCJ instability is a safe procedure with a low complication rate and statistically and clinically significant improvements in patient-reported outcome measures at 2-year minimum follow-up. Level IV: Therapeutic.

Synovium-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Scaffold-Free Fibrocartilage Engineering for Bone-Tendon Interface Healing in an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Model.

Current tendon and ligament reconstruction surgeries rely on scar tissue healing which differs from native bone-to-tendon interface (BTI) tissue. We aimed to engineer Synovium-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Sy-MSCs) based scaffold-free fibrocartilage constructs and investigate in vivo bone-tendon interface (BTI) healing efficacy in a rat anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction model. Sy-MSCs were isolated from knee joint of rats. Scaffold-free sy-MSC constructs were fabricated and cultured indifferentiation media including TGF-β-only, CTGF-only, and TGF-β + CTGF. Collagenase treatment on tendon grafts was optimized to improve cell-to-graft integration. The effects of fibrocartilage differentiation and collagenase treatment on BTI integration was assessed by conducting histological staining, cell adhesion assay, and tensile testing. Finally, histological and biomechanical analyses were used to evaluate in vivo efficacy of fibrocartilage construct in a rat ACL reconstruction model. Fibrocartilage-like features were observed with in the scaffold-free sy-MSC constructs when applying TGF-β and CTGF concurrently. Fifteen minutes collagenase treatment increased cellular attachment 1.9-fold compared to the Control group without affecting tensile strength. The failure stress was highest in the Col + D + group (22.494 ± 13.74 Kpa) compared to other groups at integration analysis in vitro. The ACL Recon + FC group exhibited a significant 88% increase in estimated stiffness (p = 0.0102) compared to the ACL Recon group at the 4-week postoperative period. Scaffold-free, fibrocartilage engineering together with tendon collagenase treatment enhanced fibrocartilaginous BTI healing in ACL reconstruction.

Research progress on bioactive strategies for promoting tendon graft healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

To review the bioactive strategies that enhance tendon graft healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), and to provide insights for improving the therapeutic outcomes of ACLR. The domestic and foreign literature related to the bioactive strategies for promoting the healing of tendon grafts after ACLR was extensively reviewed and summarized. At present, there are several kinds of bioactive materials related to tendon graft healing after ACLR: growth factors, cells, biodegradable implants/tissue derivatives. By constructing a complex interface simulating the matrix, environment, and regulatory factors required for the growth of native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the growth of transplanted tendons is regulated at different levels, thus promoting the healing of tendon grafts. Although the effectiveness of ACLR has been significantly improved in most studies, most of them are still limited to the early stage of animal experiments, and there is still a long way to go from the real clinical promotion. In addition, limited by the current preparation technology, the bionics of the interface still stays at the micron and millimeter level, and tends to be morphological bionics, and the research on the signal mechanism pathway is still insufficient. With the further study of ACL anatomy, development, and the improvement of preparation technology, the research of bioactive strategies to promote the healing of tendon grafts after ACLR is expected to be further promoted.

Investigating the effect of autograft diameter for quadriceps and patellar tendons use in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a biomechanical analysis using a simulated Lachman test.

Current clinical practice suggests using patellar and quadriceps tendon autografts with a 10 mm diameter for ACL reconstruction. This can be problematic for patients with smaller body frames. Our study objective was to determine the minimum diameter required for these grafts. We hypothesize that given the strength and stiffness of these respective tissues, they can withstand a significant decrease in diameter before demonstrating mechanical strength unviable for recreating the knee's stability. We created a finite element model of the human knee with boundary conditions characteristic of the Lachman test, a passive accessory movement test of the knee performed to identify the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The Mechanical properties of the model's grafts were directly obtained from cadaveric testing and the literature. Our model estimated the forces required to displace the tibia from the femur with varying graft diameters. The 7 mm diameter patellar and quadriceps tendon grafts could withstand 55-60 N of force before induced tibial displacement. However, grafts of 5.34- and 3.76-mm diameters could only withstand upwards of 47 N and 40 N, respectively. Additionally, at a graft diameter of 3.76 mm, the patellar tendon experienced 234% greater stiffness than the quadriceps tendon, with similar excesses of stiffness demonstrated for the 5.34- and 7-mm diameter grafts. The patellar tendon provided a stronger graft for knee reconstruction at all diameter sizes. Additionally, it experienced higher maximum stress, meaning it dissociates force better across the graft than the quadriceps tendon. Significantly lower amounts of force were required to displace the tibia for the patellar and quadriceps tendon grafts at 3.76- and 5.34-mm graft diameters. Based on this point, we conclude that grafts below the 7 mm diameter have a higher chance of failure regardless of graft selection.

Anthropometry in predicting Semitendinosus and Gracilis graft diameter for arthroscopic ACL reconstruction among the Bengali population.

Semitendinosus and Gracilis autografts are commonly used for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, its main drawback is individual variation in the tendon diameter. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of the anthropometric measurements for the prediction of Semitendinosus and Gracilis combined (quadrupled) strands graft diameter in arthroscopic ACL reconstruction among the Bengali population. Sixty consecutive patients who underwent ACL reconstruction between July 2019 to June 2020 were observed in this cross-sectional study. In all cases, the doubled (2 strands) Gracilis and Semitendinosus tendons were combined to get the final quadrupled (combined 4 strands) graft for use. Anthropometries such as body mass index (BMI), body weight, and height were recorded preoperatively and quadrupled combined tendon diameter was measured at the operating theater. The relationship between these parameters was statistically determined using the Pearson correlation coefficient, and scatter diagrams were plotted. Among the study subjects, most (54) were male, and the mean age of all subjects was 24 ± 6.92 years. The average graft diameter was 7.20 ± 0.76 mm. Correlations between the mean graft diameter with BMI (r = 0.018, and P = .891), body height (r = 0.011 and P = .933), and weight (r = 0.028 and P = .832) were not significant. Scatter diagrams also showed that the variables were not correlated. Anthropometries like BMI, body weight, or body height cannot be used in predicting Semitendinosus and Gracilis tendon graft diameter for arthroscopic ACL reconstruction among the Bengali population.

Surgical Interventions for Chronic Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Thumb: A Systematic Review.

Background: There is no consensus for the appropriate surgical management of symptomatic chronic ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the thumb. The aim of this study is to systematically review the treatment of chronic thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint UCL injuries to determine the optimal approach to treatment. Methods: A systematic review of PubMed, Medline, Embase and ePub Ahead of Print was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting of Items in Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Data from 11 studies using various surgical techniques in 245 thumbs were heterogenous and meta-analysis of results not possible. These data were qualitatively assessed. Direct repair, reconstruction with free tendon grafts and arthrodesis all demonstrated favourable outcomes with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Conclusions: Direct repair can be safely performed more than 2 months following injury. Arthrodesis may be considered in heavy manual labourers or those with osteoarthrosis. Tendon grafting is safe, yet the optimal type and configuration are yet to be determined for reconstructive methods. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic).

Impact of Quadriceps Tendon Graft Thickness on Electromechanical Delay and Neuromuscular Performance After ACL Reconstruction.

Both partial- and full-thickness quadriceps tendon (QT) graft harvests are used for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To evaluate the impact of QT graft harvest depth (full or partial thickness) on electromechanical delay (EMD), peak torque (PT), and rate of torque development (RTD) after ACLR. Controlled laboratory study. A total of 26 patients who underwent either partial-thickness (n = 14) or full-thickness (n = 12) autograft QT ACLR were recruited between June and November 2021 (>1 year before participation). Patients performed isokinetic knee extension testing with surface electromyography of the quadriceps muscles. Mixed repeated-measures analysis of variance with least significant difference post hoc testing was used to determine significant differences (mean difference [MD] ± SE) or interactions for all variables. A significant speed×depth interaction was seen for the vastus medialis (P = .005). Pairwise analyses showed significantly longer EMD for the partial-thickness graft than the full-thickness graft (MD ± SE, 19.92 ± 6.33 ms; P = .006). In the partial-thickness graft, the EMD was significantly longer at 90 deg/s versus 180 deg/s (MD ± SE, 19.11 ± 3.95 ms; P < .001) and 300 deg/s (MD ± SE, 16.43 ± 5.30 ms; P = .006). For PT, the full-thickness graft had a significantly lower PT on the operated versus nonoperated side at all speeds (MD ± SE: 90 deg/s, -57.0 ± 10.5 N·m, P < .001; 180 deg/s, -26.0 ± 10.2 N·m, P = .020; 300 deg/s, -20.3 ± 8.9 N·m, P = .034). For RTD, the full-thickness graft showed significantly Slower RTD for the operated versus nonoperated side at all time points (MD ± SD: RTD0-25 (0-25% of the range of motion), -131.3 ± 50.9 N·m/s, P = .018; RTD25-50, -197.0 ± 72.5 N·m/s, P = .014; RTD50-75, -113.3 ± 39.8 N·m/s, P = .013; RTD75-100, -149.4 ± 35.9 N·m/s, P < .001). Compared with partial-thickness QT, full-thickness QT showed a shorter vastus medialis EMD at higher loading, and therefore greater stiffness, as well as slower RTD and lower PT across all testing speeds. The impact of full-thickness QT autograft on EMD and neuromuscular performance should be considered for ACLR.

Hamstring graft size for anterior cruciate ligament repair in a sample of Iraqi men.

The goal of the current investigation was to measure the size of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft following hamstring (gracilis and semitendinosus) tendon autograft procedures in a relatively large sample size of Iraqi men. In this study, the quadruple hamstring tendon (semitendinosus and gracilis) was measured in a sample of Iraqi adult males. The study enrolled 300 Iraqi men who underwent anterior cruciate ligament repair at Diwaniyah Teaching Hospital and Alforat Alawast Private Hospital between January 2020 and December 2021. The repair procedure was based on the utilization of the quadruple (gracilis and semitendinosus) hamstring tendon. The primary outcome measure was the size of the tendon, determined using a sizing tube calibrated to 0.5 mm. Out of the sample, 80% of patients had a graft diameter of 7.5 mm, while 15% had a graft diameter of 8 mm, and 5% had a diameter of 7 mm. Body mass index was a poor predictor of graft size, whereas patient height was an excellent predictor of graft diameter. The graft diameter in most Iraqi subjects with anterior cruciate ligament injuries needs to be five bands or even six bands; otherwise, other graft sources like bone-patellar-bone or peroneus longus tendon grafts should be considered. The graft diameter may be reliably anticipated based on the patient's height.

Comparison of Knee Pain and Difficulty With Kneeling Between Patellar Tendon and Hamstring Tendon Autografts After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Study From the New Zealand ACL Registry

Background: The bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autograft is associated with difficulty with kneeling after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction; however, it is unclear whether it results in a more painful or symptomatic knee compared with the hamstring tendon autograft. Purpose: To identify the rate and risk factors for knee pain and difficulty with kneeling after ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Primary ACL reconstruction procedures prospectively recorded in the New Zealand ACL Registry from April 2014 to May 2021 were analyzed. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was used to identify patients reporting consequential knee pain (CKP), defined as a KOOS Pain subscore of ≤72 points, and severe kneeling difficulty (SKD), defined as a self-report of “severe” or “extreme” difficulty with kneeling. Absolute values of the KOOS Pain and Symptoms subscales were also compared. Results: A total of 10,999 patients were analyzed. At 2-year follow-up, 9.3% (420/4492) reported CKP, and 12.0% (537/4471) reported SKD. The most important predictor of CKP at 2-year follow-up was having significant pain before surgery (adjusted odds ratio, 4.10; P < .001). The most important predictor of SKD at 2-year follow-up was the use of a BTB autograft rather than a hamstring tendon autograft (21.3% vs 9.4%, respectively; adjusted odds ratio, 3.12; P < .001). There was no difference between the BTB and hamstring tendon grafts in terms of CKP (9.9% vs 9.2%, respectively; P = .494) or in absolute values of the KOOS Pain (mean, 88.7 vs 89.0, respectively; P = .37) and KOOS Symptoms (mean, 82.5 vs 82.1, respectively; P = .49) subscales. Conclusion: At 2-year follow-up after primary ACL reconstruction, 9.3% of patients reported CKP, and 12.0% reported SKD. The BTB autograft was associated with difficulty with kneeling, but it did not result in a more painful or symptomatic knee compared with the hamstring tendon autograft.

Assessing the Accuracy of Common Clinical Tests for Detecting Palmaris Longus: A Prospective Study in a Tertiary Center.

Background Palmaris longus (PL) is a short-bellied muscle with a long tendon that merges with the palmar aponeurosis. It is supplied by the median nerve and acts as a tensor of the palmar aponeurosis and flexes the wrist. This tendon is commonly used for tendon transfers and as a donor for tendon graft. There are numerous clinical tests to detect the presence of PL like Schaeffer's test, Thompson's test, Mishra's test I, Mishra's test II, Pushpakumar's "two-finger sign" method, and AIIMS test. The principle of all these tests is to make the tendon prominent by eliciting its flexor action and then its identification by inspection and palpation. Objectives The tests that are consistently easy to perform with good understandability would be easy to explain to the general population (patients). The aim of our study is to find out the accuracy and easy comprehensibility of various tests using compulsive postures for detecting PL tendon clinically. Materials and Methods This is a prospective study on 137 participants. All the patients were subjected to six clinical tests to detect the presence or absence of PL tendon. The results were recorded for both hands by a single observer. Results Of the 137 participants, 75 were males (54.74%) and 62 were females (45.26%). The mean age was 21 years. The AIIMS test showed the maximum number of tendons, that is, 113 (82.4%) in the right hand and 108 (78.8%) in the left hand. In view of the ability to comprehend the tests, 119 (86.9%) subjects understood Schaeffer's test very easily. Conclusion According to this study, the AIIMS test best demonstrates the PL tendon, and Schaeffer's test was the test most easily understood by the subjects.

Anatomical variations of peroneus tertius and its clinical implications: case report with systematic literature review.

Peroneus tertius (PT) or Fibularis tertius, a muscle of the anterior compartment of the leg is very distinctive to the Homo sapiens. This is because of the evolutionary acquisition of bipedal gait along with the eversion of the foot, which are unique to humans. It is considered as the fifth tendon of the extensor digitorum longus. Variations in the attachments of PT can cause stress fractures like the Jones fracture. PT has been extensively used in tendoplasty, tendon transfer and resection of the foot. The study aims to transpose the knowledge in variations of the morphology of PT from bench to bedside. Routine dissection of a 64-year-old male cadaver revealed bilateral variations in the insertion of PT. This was documented photographically. The findings prompted a systematic literature review on the morphological variations of PT. An exhaustive search was undertaken through PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify the published literature related to variations in the morphology of PT. Related anatomical studies of the variations in peroneus tertius were identified and a review of the literature was performed. Variations in the insertion of PT were observed bilaterally in the cadaver dissected by us. Statistical analysis revealed the absence of PT in 7.03% of lower limbs. 10% of studies showed accessory and duplicated PT each. Out of 20 articles reviewed, 51 lower limbs showed variation in origin, 230 lower limbs showed variations in insertion and 161 lower limbs showed other variations. PT muscle flap and tendon grafts are used in correcting the laxity of the ankle joint and foot drop. Absence of PT plays a crucial role in altering the mechanics of stress fractures of the 5th metatarsal. Thus, knowledge of the morphology of PT is crucial for plastic surgeons and orthopedic surgeons.

Can the Acetabular Labrum Be Reconstructed With a Meniscal Allograft? An In Vivo Pig Model.

No single graft type has been shown to have a benefit in acetabular labral reconstruction. The native labrum and lateral meniscus share many similarities, suggesting that the meniscus may be a promising source of graft material in labral reconstruction. Using a pig model, we sought to evaluate the healing process of fresh-frozen meniscus allograft for acetabular reconstruction by assessing (1) MRI and macroscopic observations of the meniscus allograft; (2) histologic appearance and immunohistologic evaluation of the meniscus allograft, native meniscus, and labrum; (3) microscopic assessment of the native labrum and meniscus via scanning electron microscopy; and (4) biomechanical assessment of tensile properties. Twelve skeletally mature male miniature Bama pigs (24 hips) were randomly divided into two groups: labral defect group (control) and lateral meniscus allograft group. The selection of Bama pig specimens was based on the similarity of their acetabular labrum to that of the human acetabular labrum, characterized by the presence of fibrocartilage-like tissue lacking blood vessels. The pigs underwent bilateral hip surgery. Briefly, a 1.5-cm-long section was resected in the anterior dorsal labrum, which was left untreated or reconstructed using an allogeneic lateral meniscus. The pigs were euthanized at 12 and 24 weeks postoperatively, and then evaluated by macroscopic observations and MRI measurement to assess the extent of coverage of the labral defect. We also performed a histologic analysis and immunohistologic evaluation to assess the composition and structure of meniscus allograft, native labrum, and meniscus, as well as scanning electron microscopy assessment of the microstructure of the native labrum and meniscus and biomechanical assessment of tensile properties. Imaging measurement and macroscopic observations revealed that the resected area of the labrum was fully filled in the lateral meniscus allograft group, whereas in the control group, the labral defect remained at 24 weeks. The macroscopic scores of the meniscus allograft group (8.2 ± 0.8) were higher than those of the control groups (4.8 ± 1.0) (mean difference 3.3 [95% CI 1.6 to 5.0]; p < 0.001). Moreover, in the meniscus allograft group, histologic assessment identified fibrocartilage-like cell cluster formation at the interface between the graft and acetabulum; cells and fibers arranged perpendicularly to the acetabulum and tideline structure that were similar to those of native labrum could be observed at 24 weeks. Immunohistochemical results showed that the average optical density value of Type II collagen at the graft-acetabulum interface was increased in the meniscus allograft group at 24 weeks compared with at 12 weeks (0.259 ± 0.031 versus 0.228 ± 0.023, mean difference 0.032 [95% CI 0.003 to 0.061]; p = 0.013). Furthermore, the tensile modulus of the lateral meniscus allograft was near that of the native labrum at 24 weeks (54.7 ± 9.9 MPa versus 63.2 ± 11.3 MPa, mean difference -8.4 MPa [95% CI -38.3 to 21.4]; p = 0.212). In a pig model, lateral meniscus allografts fully filled labral defects in labral reconstruction. Regeneration of a fibrocartilage transition zone at the graft-acetabulum interface was observed at 24 weeks. The use of an autograft meniscus for labral reconstruction may be a viable option when labral tears are deemed irreparable. Before its clinical implementation, it is imperative to conduct a comparative study involving tendon grafts, which are extensively used in current clinical practice.

Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Current Approaches to Preoperative Planning (Systematic Review)

Background. The number of primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions increases every year, which causes an increase in revision interventions due to ACL graft failure. When studying the literature, we identify many factors that together influence the outcome of revision ACL reconstruction, but are not always taken into account by surgeons.&#x0D; Aim of the review — is to perform a systematic review of studies that evaluated the outcomes of revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions and to identify optimal solutions to the most common problems encountered in preoperative planning.&#x0D; Methods. Information search was performed in the eLIBRARY, PubMed, and Scopus databases for the period from 2013 to 2022. Studies describing the main aspects of revision ACL reconstruction were selected for analysis. Inclusion criteria were the following: mean patient follow-up period of no less than 12 months, number of observations of no less than 10 cases. After evaluation of 898 articles, 22 articles were included in the systematic review.&#x0D; Results. Five main factors that should be taken into account in preoperative planning of revision ACL reconstruction have been identified: choice of the graft, necessity of reconstruction of the anterolateral complex, correction of tibial plateau deformity in the sagittal plane, determination of indications for one- or two-stage intervention, method of bone defect replacement in two-stage surgical treatment.&#x0D; Conclusion. The patient’s autogenous tissues should be preferred when choosing a graft. Correction of excessive anteroposterior tibial plateau inclination angle is performed only at the second revision intervention if the inclination angle exceeds 12º. Reconstruction of the anterolateral complex should be performed in young, active patients who are involved in pivot sports and in case of severe anterior instability. When determining the possibility of performing revision ACL reconstruction in one or two stages, the canal diameter is not a crucial parameter, as it is necessary to take into account the possibility of fusion of the canals from the previous surgery with the newly created ones. If the canals have correct entry points, one-stage revision reconstruction can be performed with the canal width not exceeding 10 mm and depending on the expected diameter and type of the prepared tendon graft. Bone grafting of the secondary dilated canals in two-stage intervention can be carried out using any material, but allogenous bone or synthetic grafts have certain advantages.

Prediction of Hamstring Autograft sizes for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction using Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether preoperative magnetic resonance image measurements can predict the hamstring tendon autograft diameter during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. We prospectively evaluated Forty-two patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury who underwent reconstruction using hamstring tendon autograft. Preoperative diameters and cross-sectional areas of the hamstring tendons were estimated using magnetic resonance imaging of the knee. Intraoperative diameters of the hamstring tendon graft were measured using a cylindrical graft sizer. We used Pearson's correlation test to compare the Preoperative and intraoperative graft size measurements. A possible cutoff value for the hamstring graft size was determined using Receiver operating characteristic analysis. The mean age of the patient in the study was 27.5 ± 8.5 years. There were statistically significant correlations between preoperative and intraoperative hamstring tendon graft measurements (P < 0.001). Our study found 13.3 mm² cross-sectional area as the cutoff for predicting 7mm of quadrupled hamstring graft size with both sensitivity and specificity of 85.7 %, respectively. We can conclude that preoperative magnetic resonance imaging measurements can predict the intraoperative graft size. This study can help in preoperatively planning for the graft choice.

Morphology of the Radial Attachment of the Radioulnar Ligament and Surrounding Landmarks

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is composed of dorsal and palmar radioulnar ligaments (RULs). A common injury pattern of the RUL is the avulsion of the ulnar insertion, which can be treated by arthroscopic or open repair. Although the general method of TFCC reconstruction is a tendon graft with a bone tunnel, detailed information regarding the radial attachment of the RUL is unclear. This study aimed to clarify the morphology of the radial attachments of the palmar radioulnar ligament (PRUL), dorsal radioulnar ligament (DRUL), and short radiolunate ligament (SRL) using three-dimensional imaging. A total of 29 upper limbs (16 formalin-fixed and 13 embalmed by Thiel's embalming method) of Japanese cadavers were used. After gross observation, we marked the attachments of the PRUL, DRUL, and SRL using 0.7-mm diameter pins. We created three-dimensional images of the radius, outlining the PRUL, DRUL, and SRL attachments. The software application calculated the centers of the PRUL and DRUL attachments. The PRUL attachment was horizontally shaped. The center of the PRUL was 1.5 mm proximal and 5.8 mm radial to the tip of the palmar pyramid formed by the palmar cortex and the radioulnar and radiocarpal joint surfaces. The DRUL attachment was vertically shaped. The center of the DRUL was 2.0 mm proximal and 1.7 mm radial from the tip of the dorsal pyramid formed by the dorsal cortex and the radioulnar and radiocarpal joint surfaces. The length of the SRL was 9.2 mm. The SRL and PRUL were strongly conjoined. The anatomical center on the RUL attachment of the radius can be determined from osseous landmarks. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of RUL attachment to the distal radius and may assist surgeons in performing anatomical reconstruction of TFCC.

Variations in the extensor indicis proprius muscle in the Burmese population: implications for hand reconstructive surgery

BackgroundThe use of extensor indicis proprius (EIP) muscle tendon for tendon grafting and transplantation in the management of hand injuries is common. Anatomical variations of the EIP tendons have been reported with variable prevalence and presentation in different populations worldwide. Knowledge of possible variation patterns is crucial in reconstructive surgery. The current study aims to describe the prevalence of anatomical variations of the EIP in the Burmese population. MethodsA total of 50 cadavers (39 males, and 11 females) were dissected. Both upper limbs of each cadaver were observed. The presence of the EIP, the number of tendons, the origin and insertion of the muscle and its relation with the extensor digitorum communis (EDC) were recorded and variations reported. ResultsOf the 100 limbs studied in the 50 cadavers, only 1/100 limb was reported to have an absent EIP muscle and tendon. Of the remaining 99/100 limbs examined, one of them consists of a double tendon, that is, EIP and extensor indicis et medii communis (EIMC) were inserted separately onto the index finger and middle finger respectively on the dorsum of the left hand. Further to this, there is one case in which an extra muscle belly was observed in the EIP tendon, this muscle is commonly known as the extensor digitorum brevis manus muscle. All the EIP variations were observed in the male cadavers only. ConclusionOf the 50 cadavers studied, 3/100 limbs exhibited EIP variations in the current studied population. Population-specific studies on these variations may aid in a better understanding of the different anatomical patterns of the muscles in the dorsum of the hand. This may lead to improved diagnosis and surgical management of injuries to the dorsum of the hand and for the use of the EIP tendon in surgical grafts and transplantations.

Endoscopic, full-thickness, soft-tissue, quadriceps tendon harvesting

Quadriceps tendon (QT) graft utilization for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction has gained popularity among surgeons lately, due to the favorable biomechanical characteristics and clinical results. The growing interest in this graft has resulted in the development of minimal invasive harvesting techniques. Nevertheless, QT graft harvesting is considered a technically demanding procedure with a steep learning curve. This technical note describes the endoscopic approach of QT graft harvesting and aims in helping the surgeon to safely harvest the graft and to minimize the complication rate.

Mini-Invasive Harvesting of Quadriceps Tendon Graft With Patellar Bone Block for ACL Reconstruction Using a Dedicated Harvester

Background: The selection of the type of graft used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remains a matter of debate. In the past, the quadriceps tendon (QT) was associated with considerable morbidity and less favorable outcomes than other grafts. Improvements in harvesting methods have decreased morbidity of the surgical procedure and led to an increase in the use of QT in recent years. Indications: The QT graft with patellar bone block is a viable option for all patients with closed physis undergoing ACL reconstruction. It is especially suitable for young and active patients who practice activities that require kneeling or athletes in which hamstrings preservation is advisable. Technique Description: A vertical mini-invasive longitudinal incision starts 1 cm proximal to the middle of the patellar pole. After dissection, the bone block is marked and detached with an oscillating saw. A drill hole is performed in the bone block to serve for the passage of a traction suture. The bone block is lifted with the help of the traction suture, and the graft is trimmed to the desired diameter. The layer between tendon and capsule is separated by blunt dissection to spare the capsule of the suprapatellar pouch. Harvesting is achieved using a dedicated QT harvester. Usually, a graft length of 8 cm is harvested. The defect in the QT is closed using a suture passer at the proximal end. Finally, the graft is prepared and calibrated according to the planned technique for ACL reconstruction. Results: There was no major intraoperative complication in the senior author's series (more than 50 patients) using the dedicated QT harvester. On rare occasions (&lt;10% of the cases), the device opened the suprapatellar joint capsule, creating the additional need for capsular repair during defect closure. On two occasions, the graft was shorter than expected, which may have been caused by insufficient dissection or improper use of the harvester. Discussion/Conclusion: ACL reconstruction with minimally invasive QT graft harvesting methods has shown very good clinical outcomes with few complications. It can be recommended for primary and revision ACL reconstruction. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Adjustable-Loop Suspensory Devices for All-Inside ACL Reconstruction: A Time-Zero Full-Construct Model.

Little is known about the stability of adjustable-loop devices (ALDs) for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). To evaluate the stabilization behavior of 3 different types of ALDs for all-inside ACLR in a full-construct surgical technique-based manner. Controlled laboratory study. The femoral and tibial devices of Ultrabutton (Smith & Nephew), Infinity (Conmed), and TightRope II (Arthrex) were applied to quadrupled bovine tendon grafts (n = 8 each) with tibial-sided traction applied (350 N) for graft tensioning in a simulated fully extended knee. Knotless femoral graft fixation was based on either a suture-locking device (SLD; Ultrabutton), button-locking device (BLD; Infinity), or dual-locking device (DLD; TightRope II). All constructs were progressively loaded (50 N/500 cycles) from 50 to 300 N for 3000 cycles (0.75 Hz), including complete unloading situations and pull to failure (50 mm/min). Construct elongation, stiffness, and ultimate load were analyzed. BLD showed significantly greater initial elongation (-2.69 ± 0.15 mm) than DLD (-3.19 ± 0.21 mm; P < .001) but behaved similarly to SLD (-2.93 ± 0.23 mm). While DLD and SLD had the smallest initial elongation at the same significance level, they behaved opposite to each other with gradually increasing peak loading. At the end of testing, DLD had the lowest (-0.64 ± 0.32 mm) and SLD the highest (3.41 ± 1.01 mm) total elongation (P < .003 for both). SLD displayed significantly higher dynamic elongation (6.34 ± 0.23 mm) than BLD (3.21 ± 0.61 mm) and DLD (2.56 ± 0.31 mm) (P < .001 for both). The failure load of BLD (865.0 ± 183.8 N) was significantly lower (P < .026) compared with SLD and DLD (>1000 N). The predominant failure mode was suture rupture and tibial bone breakage with button subsidence (SLD, n = 4). No significant difference in stiffness between constructs was found. While DLD successfully restricted critical construct elongation, BLD partially and SLD completely exceeded the clinical failure threshold (>3 mm) of plastic elongation with loop lengthening during increasing cyclic peak loading with complete unloading. Higher failure loads of SLD and DLD implants (>1000 N) were achieved at similar construct stiffness to BLD. A detailed biomechanical understanding of the stabilization potential is pertinent to the continued evolution of ALDs to improve clinical outcomes.