A modified anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with BTB autograft

Abstract

Background. Central third of the patellar tendon is a well know graft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, it’s usage can be difficult in case of long patella tendon, which causes graft length discrepancy. The aim of this article is to evaluate the results of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with a help of original method of bone patella tendon bone graft preparation. Methods. 26 males operated for ACL tear have been included in the study. On the preoperative MRI scans the approximate length of ACL, tibial tunnel, patella tendon length and tibial bone plug length have been measured. The technique of tibial bone plug cut was optimized based on preoperative MRI assessment. Results. In all cases, MRI-based assessments were consistent with intraoperative measurements, hence there was possible to avoid graft length discrepancy. In a period of 12 weeks the average score on the step-and-holds test was 23.8±1.1, the single-leg squat test was 6.7±0.9 and the Y-balance test was 83.2±1.4. The average IKDS score was 64.9±5.7. Conclusion. The proposed method is appropriate for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients with long patella tendon.

Keywords

• knee joint
• anterior cruciate ligament
• surgical treatment
• bone-tendon-bone graft
• btb