Outcomes after ACL reconstruction with focus on older patients: results from The Swedish National Anterior Cruciate Ligament Register

Purpose

To investigate and analyse outcomes of patients over the age of 40 who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and to compare them to their younger counterparts. We analysed patient-reported outcomes measured using the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) as well as aetiology of injury, concomitant intra-articular injuries and time from injury to surgery.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Register during the period of 2005 through 2012. The following data were extracted and analysed: patient age, gender, activity at the time of injury, time between injury and reconstruction, concomitant intra-articular injuries, graft size used for reconstruction and KOOS measured pre-operatively as well as 1, 2 and 5 years post-operatively. The cohort was stratified into age groups of 0–19, 20–29, 30–39 and ≥40 years of age.

Results

Pivoting sports were dominating as the cause of ACL injury in the younger age groups (up to 39 years). Alpine skiing and other non-specified activities were the most common causes in the older age group (≥40 years). Pre-operative KOOS was significantly lower in older age groups (p < 0.01). Post-operative KOOS regarding all subscales was significantly better in the older age group. The improvement in KOOS was significant with increasing age (p < 0.01). Older patients exhibited the greatest improvement in KOOS for all subscales at 1, 2 and 5 years post-operative follow-ups compared with pre-operative values (p < 0.01). Older patients had more cartilage injuries pre-operatively compared with younger patients. The same trend was observed in the older group for meniscus injury with and without cartilage injuries. The diameter of the graft used for ACL reconstruction was significantly larger in the older age groups and largest in the age group ≥40 years (p < 0.01). Older patients waited significantly longer for surgery after the ACL injury (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

In the older age groups, patients reported lower pre-operative KOOS compared with their younger counterparts. At follow-up, KOOS was similar in all age groups. From these results, we can therefore conclude that our hypothesis confirmed that optimal surgical results can in fact be achieved even in older patients.

Level of evidence

II.     

Increased odds of patient-reported success at 2 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients without cartilage lesions: a cohort study from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Register

Purpose

To investigate whether the surgical technique of single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, the visualization of anatomic surgical factors and the presence or absence of concomitant injuries at primary ACL reconstruction are able to predict patient-reported success and failure. The hypothesis of this study was that anatomic single-bundle surgical procedures would be predictive of patient-reported success.

Methods

This cohort study was based on data from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Register during the period of 1 January 2005 through 31 December 2014. Patients who underwent primary single-bundle ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendons were included. Details on surgical technique were collected using an online questionnaire comprising essential anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction scoring checklist items, defined as the utilization of accessory medial portal drilling, anatomic tunnel placement, the visualization of insertion sites and pertinent landmarks. A univariate logistic regression model adjusted for age and gender was used to determine predictors of patient-reported success and failure, i.e. 20th and 80th percentile, respectively, in the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), 2 years after ACL reconstruction.

Results

In the 6889 included patients, the surgical technique used for single-bundle ACL reconstruction did not predict the predefined patient-reported success or patient-reported failure in the KOOS₄. Patient-reported success was predicted by the absence of concomitant injury to the meniscus (OR = 0.81 [95% CI, 0.72–0.92], p = 0.001) and articular cartilage (OR = 0.70 [95% CI, 0.61–0.81], p < 0.001). Patient-reported failure was predicted by the presence of a concomitant injury to the articular cartilage (OR = 1.27 [95% CI, 1.11–1.44], p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Surgical techniques used in primary single-bundle ACL reconstruction did not predict the KOOS 2 years after the reconstruction. However, the absence of concomitant injuries at index surgery predicted patient-reported success in the KOOS. The results provide further evidence that concomitant injuries at ACL reconstruction affect subjective knee function and a detailed knowledge of the treatment of these concomitant injuries is needed.

Level of evidence

Retrospective cohort study, Level III.

     

Inferior results after revision ACL reconstructions: a comparison with primary ACL reconstructions

Purpose

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are common, especially among young athletes, and such injuries may have considerable impact on both sport careers and everyday life. ACL reconstructions are successful for most patients, but some suffer from persistent giving-way symptoms and/or re-ruptures requiring revision surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results after revision ACL reconstructions and compare them with the results in a control group consisting of primary ACL reconstructions.

Methods

This retrospective study included 56 patients undergoing revision ACL reconstruction and 52 patients receiving primary ACL reconstructions. The follow-up evaluation included clinical examination, instrumented laxity testing, testing of muscle strength, Tegner activity score, Lysholm score, Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) and radiological grading of osteoarthritis.

Results

The median time from the last ACL reconstruction to follow-up was 90 months in the revision ACL reconstruction group and 96 months in the primary ACL reconstruction group. The revision group had significantly inferior KOOS and Lysholm scores compared with the primary group. Patients in the revision group also showed greater laxity measured with the pivot shift test, a larger reduction in the Tegner activity score, reduced muscle strength in the injured knee, and more severe radiological osteoarthritis; however, no difference in anterior-posterior translation was found.

Conclusion

Inferior results were found on several of the testing parameters in the revision group compared with the primary group. Patients should receive this information prior to revision ACL reconstructions.

Level of evidence

III.     

An isolated rupture of the posterior cruciate ligament results in reduced preoperative knee function in comparison with an anterior cruciate ligament injury

Purpose

To investigate differences in preoperative knee function (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, KOOS), the time period from injury to surgery, and associated injuries when comparing primary isolated posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions.

Methods

Isolated primary ACL and PCL reconstructions registered in the Norwegian National Knee Ligament Registry from 2004 through 2010 were included (n = 71 primary PCLs and 9,649 primary ACLs). Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the preoperative KOOS subscale values.

Results

The preoperative KOOS in the PCL group (n = 71) and ACL group (n = 9,649) was significantly different for the subscales symptoms (mean difference, ?8.4; 95 % CI: ?12.8 to ?4.0), pain (mean difference, ?15.9; 95 % CI: ?20.3 to ?11.4), activities of daily living (mean difference, ?12.9; 95 % CI: ?17.4 to ?8.4), sport and recreation (mean difference, ?15.9; 95 % CI: ?22.6 to ?9.3), and quality of life (mean difference, ?7.9; 95 % CI: ?12.4 to ?3.5). The primary isolated PCL-reconstructed knees had a median time from injury to surgery of 21 months in comparison with 8 months for ACL injuries. The ACL-injured knees had more associated injuries (meniscus and full-thickness cartilage lesions) than the PCL-injured knees.

Conclusion

Surgically treated knees with an isolated rupture of the PCL exhibited worse knee function preoperatively compared with knees with an isolated ACL injury; in addition, the delay to surgery was longer. Meniscal lesions were found more frequently in ACL-injured knees.

Level of evidence

Prospective cohort study, evidence Level I.     

Iliotibial band autograft versus bone-patella-tendon-bone autograft,a possible alternative for ACL reconstruction: a 15-year prospective randomized controlled trial

Purpose

The long-term results after using the iliotibial band autograft (ITB) in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction are not fully known. If equal in quality to conventional methods, the ITB graft could be a useful alternative as a primary graft, in revision surgery or multi-ligament reconstruction. The purpose is to assess whether the ITB autograft is a long-term reliable alternative to the bone-patella-tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft, using a prospective randomized controlled trial design.

Methods

From 1995 to 1996, sixty patients scheduled for primary ACL reconstruction were included in a prospective randomized controlled trial. Three senior knee surgeons, experienced in both types of ACL surgery, performed all the operations. A standardized and supervised rehabilitation programme was used for both groups for 6 months. Thirty patients received the ITB reconstruction, and 30 received the BPTB reconstruction. Forty-nine participated at follow-up in 2010 (82 %). Primary outcome was the failure rate after ACL reconstruction. Secondary outcomes were knee injury osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) [pain, symptoms, Sport/Rec, quality of life (QOL), daily living function], Tegner activity scale, anterior knee pain-score, Lysholm score, Rolimeter laxity, extension deficit, single hop and crossover hop for distance.

Results

At 15-year follow-up, no significant difference existed between the groups. Graft failure occurred in 4 ITB subjects (16 %) and 3 BPTB subjects (13 %). KOOS (Sport/Rec) for the ITB group was 75 and 73 for the BPTB group. The KOOS (QOL) was 72 and 68 for the ITB group and BPTB group, respectively.

Conclusion

Similar graft failure rates and KOOS were found when comparing ITB- and BPTB-operated individuals, at 15-year follow-up. The ITB graft had equal long-term clinical results compared to the BPTB graft and is recommended as a reliable alternative autograft for ACL reconstruction.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic studies, Level I.     

Young athletes return too early to knee-strenuous sport,without acceptable knee function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the return to knee-strenuous sport rate, muscle function and subjective knee function among adolescent patients (15–20 years of age) and adult patients (21–30 years of age) 8 and 12 months, respectively, after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. It was hypothesised that no differences in outcome would be found between age groups at 8 or 12 months after ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from five tests of muscle function, from the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Tegner Activity Scale (Tegner), performed at 8 and 12 months after a primary ACL reconstruction, were extracted from a rehabilitation outcome register. A total of 270 (51% women) athletes, aged 15–30 years, who were all involved in knee-strenuous sport prior the injury, were included at 8 months after ACL reconstruction. At 12 months 203 (51% women) were included. The return to knee-strenuous-sport rates and the rate of achieving a limb symmetry index of ≥ 90% in all five tests of muscle function, defined as recovery of muscle function, and subjective knee function scores, as measured with the KOOS, were compared between age groups.

Results

The adolescent patients had a higher (50%) return to knee-strenuous sport rate compared with the adult patients (38%) 8 months after ACL reconstruction (p?=?0.04). At the 12-month follow-up, no difference was found between the age groups; 74 and 63%, respectively. At the 8-month follow-up, 29% of the patients, in both age groups, who had returned to sport had recovered their muscle function in all five tests of muscle function. At the 12-month follow-up, the corresponding results were 20% for the adolescents and 28% for the adult patients. No difference in mean KOOS scores was found between the age groups at 8 or at 12 months after ACL reconstruction.

Conclusion

The majority of young athletes make an early return to knee-strenuous sport after a primary ACL reconstruction, without recovering their muscle function. To set realistic expectations, clinicians are recommended to ensure that young athletes receive information about not to return before muscle function is recovered and that this may take longer time than 12 months.

Level of evidence

II.

     

No negative effect on patient-reported outcome of concomitant cartilage lesions 5–9 years after ACL reconstruction

Purpose

To compare patient-reported outcome 5–9 years after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in patients with and without a concomitant full-thickness [International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade 3–4] cartilage lesion.

Methods

This is a prospective follow-up of a cohort of 89 patients that were identified in the Norwegian National Knee Ligament Registry and included in the current study in 2007, consisting of 30 primary ACL-reconstructed patients with a concomitant, isolated full-thickness cartilage lesion (ICRS grade 3 and 4) and 59 matched controls without cartilage lesions (ICRS grade 1–4). At a median follow-up of 6.3 years (range 4.9–9.1) after ACL reconstruction, 74 (84 %) patients completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), which was used as the main outcome measure. Secondary outcomes included radiographic evaluation according to the Kellgren–Lawrence criteria of knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Results

At follow-up, 5–9 years after ACL reconstruction, no statistically significant differences in KOOS were detected between patients with a concomitant full-thickness cartilage lesion and patients without concomitant cartilage lesions. Radiographic knee OA of the affected knee, defined as Kellgren and Lawrence ≥2, was significantly more frequent in subjects without a concomitant cartilage lesion (p = 0.016).

Conclusion

ACL reconstruction performed in patients with an isolated concomitant full-thickness cartilage lesion restored patient-reported knee function to the same level as ACL reconstruction performed in patients without concomitant cartilage lesions, 5–9 years after surgery. This should be considered in the preoperative information given to patients with such combined injuries, in terms of the expected outcome after ACL reconstruction and in the counselling and decision-making on the subject of surgical treatment of the concomitant cartilage lesion.

Level of evidence

Prognostic; prospective cohort study, Level I.

     

Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction: a global perspective. Part 1

Purpose

In August 2011, orthopaedic surgeons from more than 20 countries attended a summit on anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The summit offered a unique opportunity to discuss current concepts, approaches, and techniques in the field of ACL reconstruction among leading surgeons in the field.

Methods

Five panels (with 36 panellists) were conducted on key issues in ACL surgery: anatomic ACL reconstruction, rehabilitation and return to activity following anatomic ACL reconstruction, failure after ACL reconstruction, revision anatomic ACL reconstruction, and partial ACL injuries and ACL augmentation. Panellists’ responses were secondarily collected using an online survey.

Results

Thirty-six panellists (35 surgeons and 1 physical therapist) sat on at least one panel. Of the 35 surgeons surveyed, 22 reported performing “anatomic” ACL reconstructions. The preferred graft choice was hamstring tendon autograft (53.1 %) followed by bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft (22.8 %), allograft (13.5 %), and quadriceps tendon autograft (10.6 %). Patients generally returned to play after an average of 6 months, with return to full competition after an average of 8 months. ACL reconstruction “failure” was defined by 12 surgeons as instability and pathological laxity on examination, a need for revision, and/or evidence of tear on magnetic resonance imaging. The average percentage of patients meeting the criteria for “failure” was 8.2 %.

Conclusions

These data summarize the results of five panels on anatomic ACL reconstruction. The most popular graft choice among surgeons for primary ACL reconstructions is hamstring tendon autograft, with allograft being used most frequently employed in revision cases. Nearly half of the surgeons surveyed performed both single- and double-bundle ACL reconstructions depending on certain criteria. Regardless of the technique regularly employed, there was unanimous support among surgeons for the use of “anatomic” reconstructions using bony and soft tissue remnant landmarks.

Level of evidence

V.     

Long-term results of a randomized study on anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with or without a synthetic degradable augmentation device to support the autograft

Purpose

The aim was to compare the outcome of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft, with and without a poly(urethane urea) augmentation device.

Methods

Patients were randomized to BPTB reconstruction with a synthetic degradable augmentation device (n = 96) or without augmentation (n = 105). Follow-ups were made during 4 years after surgical treatment with the KT1000? arthrometer for objective evaluation of sagittal stability. The Tegner scoring system for assessment of physical activity level and the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for assessment of knee-specific health were evaluated after 4 and 12 years.

Results

KT1000? tests showed a significant decrease in mean manual maximum side-to-side difference after 4 years in both patients with and those without augmentation, without any statistical difference between the groups (n.s.). Pre-injury, 76 and 80 % of the patients, respectively, reported Tegner level 7–10. Pre-surgery, the corresponding figures were 6 and 5 %, and at 4 years, 33 and 30 %. Twelve years after ACL reconstruction, both groups had significantly higher KOOS scores in function in sports and recreational activities (p < 0.001) and knee-related quality of life (p < 0.001) compared to before surgical treatment. In 10 patients, the augmentation device was removed, in six of these because of insufficient screw fixation to femur and in four due to swelling/hydrops.

Conclusion

This study showed no significant difference in clinical outcome with use of an additional synthetic augmentation device in a single-bundle BPTB ACL reconstruction compared with non-augmentation, in short, intermediate, or long-term perspective.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic study, Level I.     

Prospective randomized comparison of anatomic single- and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose

To determine if anatomic double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is superior to anatomic single-bundle reconstruction in restoring the stabilities and functions of the knee joint.

Methods

A prospective randomized clinical study was done to compare the results of 32 cases of anatomic single-bundle ACL reconstruction and 34 cases of anatomic double-bundle ACL reconstruction with average follow-up of 16.3 ± 3.1 months. Tunnel placements of all the cases were measured on 3D CT. Clinical results were collected after reconstruction; graft’s appearance, meniscus status and cartilage state under arthroscopy were compared and analysed too.

Results

Tunnel placements, confirmed with 3D CT, were in the anatomic positions as described in literature both in SB and DB group. No differences were found between SB and DB groups in clinical outcome scores, pivot shift test and KT 1000 measurements (average side-to-side difference for anterior tibial translation was 0.7 mm in SB group and 1.0 mm in DB group). More than 70 % of the single-bundle graft and AM bundle graft in DB group appeared excellent, but only 44.1 % of PL bundle grafts in DB group were excellent and 11.8 % were in poor state. No new menisci tear was found either in SB or DB group, however, in DB group cartilage damages in medial patella-femoral joint occurred in 38.2 % cases. This rate was significantly higher than in the SB group which is only 9.3 %.

Conclusion

Both single- and double-bundle anatomic ACL reconstruction can restore the knee’s stability and functions very well. However, more incidences of poor PL status and medial patellar-femoral cartilage damage may occur in double-bundle ACL reconstruction.

Level of evidence

Randomized controlled trial, Level I.     

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: the short-term recovery using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)

Purpose

The use of patient reported outcome measures has gained increasing prominence in reporting surgical outcomes following primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Many peer-reviewed journals now require ‘end-result’ outcomes in excess of 24 months following surgery for publication. As such, there is less focus on early recovery when the greatest rate of change is experienced and when key rehabilitation decisions are made relating to restricted activity and return to sports. We sought to examine the early recovery profile of patients following primary ACLR, determine the presence of any plateau effect of recovery and establish a source of reference for future study.

Method

One hundred and sixty-five patients undergoing primary ACLR were identified from a prospective database. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was recorded pre-operatively and at the 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-up reviews. Mean scores were developed to plot a standard ‘recovery profile’ of statistical analysis for the presence of any plateau effect.

Results

There were significant improvements in all mean KOOS domains at 12 months following ACLR (P < 0.001) and between each recording point (P < 0.003), discounting any plateau effect. Rates of graft rupture and other surgical complications were low (1.2 and 1.8 %). The recovery profile of mean KOOS scores illustrated a reduced rate of recovery over time with sports/recreation and knee-related quality of life KOOS domains demonstrating the greatest sensitivity to change.

Conclusions

This study profiles the early recovery of patients following primary ACLR using the KOOS demonstrating continued recovery of function throughout the full first 12 months with no evidence of a plateau effect. The early results in ACLR have not previously been reported in a study of this size and provide important data upon which key rehabilitation decisions can be based.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic study–case series with no comparison group, Level IV.     

Long-term results of arthroscopically assisted anatomical single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using patellar tendon autograft: are there any predictors for the development of osteoarthritis?

Purpose

The primary purpose of our study was to analyse the long-term outcome of patients treated for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears by anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft. The secondary purpose was to identify predictive factors for good outcome and occurrence of osteoarthritis.

Methods

Sixty-three patients (m:f = 54:9; mean age at surgery, 27 ± 7 years) treated by ACL reconstruction were evaluated with a mean follow-up of 16 ± 1 years using IKDC2000, the SF36, Lysholm and Tegner score, Knee Society score, visual analogue scale for pain and satisfaction and KOOS. The femoral tunnel position was evaluated according to Sommer. It was also assessed in percentage of the Blumensaat line and the tibial tunnel position in percentage of the total anterior–posterior plateau length. The extent of osteoarthritis was graded according to the Kellgren–Lawrence score.

Results

The total IKDC2000 was normal in 20 (32 %), nearly normal in 29 (46 %), abnormal in 12 (19 %) and severely abnormal in 3 (5 %) of patients. The mean total SF-36 was 89 ± 13, the Lysholm score 95 ± 12, the Knee Society score 191 ± 16 and the total KOOS 84 ± 19. The Tegner score decreased from pre-injury 7(4–10) to 6 (2–10) at follow-up. The Kellgren–Lawrence score was normal in 17 (27 %), suspected osteoarthritis in 25 (40 %), minimal osteoarthritis in 5 (8 %), moderate osteoarthritis in 9 (14 %) and severe osteoarthritis in 3 patients (5 %). The femoral tunnel was in zone A in 43 patients (68 %), in zone B in 16 (25 %) and in zone C in 4 patients (7 %). The femoral tunnel position in percentage of the Blumensaat line was 49 ± 3 (range, 44–57), and the tibial tunnel position in percentage of the total anterior–posterior plateau length was 32 ± 6 (range, 21–46). Patients with meniscal lesion at the time of ACL tear showed significantly less favourable outcomes than those without.

Conclusions

Patients treated by the proposed ACL reconstruction technique showed on average good to excellent long-term results. A meniscal lesion at the time of ACL tear was highly predictive for less favourable outcome.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Time from ACL injury to reconstruction and the prevalence of additional intra-articular pathology: is patient age an important factor?

Purpose

Meniscus and cartilage lesions have been reported to be prevalent during delayed reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Relatively, little work has been done exploring the influence of patient age on this relationship. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the effect of time from ACL injury to reconstruction on the prevalence of associated meniscal and chondral injury is influenced by patient age. It was hypothesized that patients in whom the time from ACL injury to reconstruction exceeds 12 weeks will exhibit an increased prevalence of medial compartment pathology relative to those reconstructed within 12 weeks of injury in patients of all ages.

Methods

Data detailing time from ACL injury to reconstruction and the prevalence of intra-articular findings were obtained in 311 of 489 consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated ACL reconstruction. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether the time from ACL injury to reconstruction was <12 weeks or at least 12 weeks. The prevalence of associated intra-articular injury was then compared between the two groups. Patients were then stratified based on age (22 years and under vs. over the age of 22), and the analysis was repeated on both groups.

Results

Analysis of all patients together revealed a significantly higher prevalence of medial meniscus injury (p = 0.013) and medial compartment chondral injury (p < 0.0005) in patients in whom the time from ACL injury to reconstruction exceeded 12 weeks. The prevalence of lateral meniscal injury did not increase with increasing time ACL injury to surgery. Among patients aged 22 years and under, there was no increase in the prevalence of intra-articular pathology in any compartment in the late reconstruction group. In contrast, among patients over the age of 22, there was a significant increase in the prevalence of medial chondral injury (p = 0.042) in the late reconstruction group.

Conclusion

The prevalence of injuries to the meniscus and articular cartilage in the medial compartment of the knee is increased with increasing time from ACL injury to reconstruction. This relationship may vary depending on patient age. Patients over the age of 22 exhibit a higher prevalence of intra-articular injury with delayed reconstruction, while no such differences are noted among younger patients.

Level of evidence

Retrospective comparative study, Level III.     

Long-term follow-up of patellar tendon grafts or hamstring tendon grafts in endoscopic ACL reconstructions

Purpose

Several studies compare the short- and long-term results of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) graft or double-looped semitendinosus and gracilis (DLSG) graft. However, no studies evaluate the long-term results of BPTB grafts fixed with metal interference screws and DLSG grafts fixed with the Bone Mulch Screw and the Washer Loc. This prospective randomized multicentre study has the null hypothesis that there is no difference in long-term outcome between the two procedures.

Methods

A total of 114 patients with a symptomatic ACL rupture were randomized to reconstruction with either a BPTB graft (N = 58) or a DLSG graft (N = 56). Follow-up was conducted after one, two and seven years. At the seven-year follow-up, 102 of the 114 patients (89%) were available for evaluation; however, 16 of these by telephone-interview only.

Results

Ten patients in the BPTB group and 19 patients in the DLSG group underwent additional knee surgery (P = 0.048), two and three, respectively, of these were ACL revisions (n.s.). The total flexion work was lower in the DLSG group (P = 0.001). The mean peak flexion torque and extension work, however, showed no difference between the groups. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding the Tegner activity score, the Lysholm functional score, the Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), subjective knee function, anterior knee pain or mobility. There was no significant difference in laxity between the groups on the Lachman test or the KT-1,000 maximum manual force test.

Conclusions

Both grafts and fixation methods resulted in satisfactory subjective outcome and objective stability. Both these methods can therefore be considered as suitable alternatives for ACL reconstructions.

Level of evidence

II.     

One-stage bilateral anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose

The ideal treatment for patients presenting with bilateral anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) deficiency remains controversial. The purpose was to evaluate cost and functional results after one-stage bilateral ACL reconstruction using either hamstring or patella tendon autograft.

Methods

This prospective comparative study was compared the mid-term outcome of 7 patients (14 knees) who had one-stage bilateral ACL reconstruction with that of a matched group of patients who had unilateral reconstruction (21 patients).

Results

The median length of hospital stay was 4 (3–5) nights for the bilateral group and 2 (1–4) nights for the control group. The duration of rehabilitation process in patients from control group with unilateral ACL reconstruction was one week shorter (9 vs 8 weeks). In the bilateral group, the median Lysholm score was 96 (85–100), and in the control group, the median score was 93 (81–100). The median time to return to full-time work and to full sports was 9 weeks and 7 months for the one-stage group and 8 weeks and 6 months for the unilateral group. Six patients (86 %) in the bilateral group and 17 patients (81 %) in the control group were still performing at their pre-injury level of activity. National Health Institution saved 2925 EUR when we performed one-stage bilateral reconstruction instead of two-stage ACL reconstruction.

Conclusions

Mid-term clinical results suggested that one-stage bilateral ACL reconstruction using either hamstring or patella tendon autograft is clinically effective. For patients presenting bilateral ACL-deficient knees, one-stage bilateral ACL reconstruction is reproducible, cost effective and does not compromise functional results.

Level of evidence

II.     

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with 4-strand hamstring autograft and accelerated rehabilitation: a 10-year prospective study on clinical results, knee osteoarthritis and its predictors

Purpose

Analysis of long-term clinical and radiological outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with special attention to knee osteoarthritis and its predictors.

Methods

A prospective, consecutive case series of 100 patients. Arthroscopic transtibial ACL reconstruction was performed using 4-strand hamstring tendon autografts with a standardized accelerated rehabilitation protocol. Analysis was performed preoperatively and 10 years postoperatively. Clinical examination included Lysholm and Tegner scores, IKDC, KT-1000 testing (MEDmetric Co., San Diego, CA, USA) and leg circumference measurements. Radiological evaluation included AP weight bearing, lateral knee, Rosenberg and sky view X-rays. Radiological classifications were according to Ahlbäck and Kellgren & Lawrence. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

Clinical outcome A significant improvement (p < 0.001) between preoperative and postoperative measurements could be demonstrated for the Lysholm and Tegner scores, IKDC patient subjective assessment, KT-1000 measurements, pivot shift test, IKDC score and one-leg hop test. A pivot shift phenomenon (glide) was still present in 43 (50 %) patients and correlated with lower levels of activity (p < 0.022). Radiological outcome: At follow-up, 46 (53.5 %) patients had signs of osteoarthritis (OA). In this group, 33 patients (72 %) had chondral lesions (≥grade 2) at the time of ACL reconstruction. A history of medial meniscectomy before or at the time of ACL reconstruction increased the risk of knee OA 4 times (95 % CI 1.41–11.5). An ICRS grade 3 at the time of ACL reconstruction increased the risk of knee OA by 5.2 times (95 % CI 1.09–24.8). There was no correlation between OA and activity level (Tegner score ≥6) nor between OA and a positive pivot shift test.

Conclusion

Transtibial ACL reconstruction with 4-strand hamstring autograft and accelerated rehabilitation restored anteroposterior knee stability. Clinical parameters and patient satisfaction improved significantly. At 10-year follow-up, radiological signs of OA were present in 53.5 % of the subjects. Risk factors for OA were meniscectomy prior to or at the time of ACL reconstruction and chondral lesions at the time of ACL reconstruction.

Level of evidence

II.     

Relationship between bone bruise volume and the presence of meniscal tears in acute anterior cruciate ligament rupture

Purpose

To determine whether there is a relationship between the size of the bone bruise volume after an acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and the presence of meniscal tears in the medial and lateral compartment.

Methods

Following Institutional Review Board approval, 50 patients with an acute ACL rupture and MRI imaging within 30 days of injury were identified. Two musculoskeletal radiologists evaluated the lateral and medial menisci and graded them as one of the following: no meniscal tear, tear of one meniscus (medial or lateral) or tear of both menisci (medial and lateral). Sagittal T2 fat-suppressed images were used to calculate bone bruise volume. The relationship between bone bruise volume and the presence of a meniscus tear was calculated.

Results

Forty-three (86 %) patients had a bone bruise, 16 (32 %) patients had no tear, 7 (14 %) patients had lateral meniscus tear, 13 (26 %) patients had medial tear and 14 (28 %) patients had medial and lateral tears. There was a statistically significant difference in femoral bone bruise volume when comparing no meniscal tear to medial and lateral tears as well as when comparing medial or lateral tears to medial and lateral tears.

Conclusion

There is a statistically significant relationship between femoral bone bruise volume and the presence of meniscal tears in ACL injury, especially in the setting of medial and lateral pathology.

Level of evidence

Retrospective cohort study, Level III.     

Sex comparison of familial predisposition to anterior cruciate ligament injury

Purpose

In an effort to identify risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, many potential risk factors have been proposed, including familial predisposition. However, no study has evaluated familial predisposition in male or females separately. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a familial predisposition to ACL injury exists in both males and females.

Methods

One hundred and twenty (78 males and 42 females) patients who had undergone surgical ACL reconstruction were recruited as the ACL group, and 107 patients (67 males and 40 females) that had undergone arthroscopic partial menisectomy, with no previous history of ACL injury, were recruited as the referent control group. A familial ACL injury and subject particulars questionnaire was completed.

Results

When all subjects were combined, the ACL group (20.0 %, 24 of 120) did not demonstrate a higher familial (first-degree relative) prevalence (n.s.) of ACL injury compared to the referent control group (15.0 %; 16 of 107 patients). When the data were stratified by sex, the male ACL group (19.2 %, 15 of 78) demonstrated a significantly higher familial (first-degree relative) prevalence (P = 0.02) of ACL injury compared to the male referent control group (7.5 %; 5 of 67 patients). There were no differences among the females (n.s.).

Discussion

The results of this study show that male patients with ACL tears are more likely to have a first-degree relative with an ACL tear compared to male referent control subjects. Future research is warranted to better delineate sex-specific risk factors for ACL injuries could help guide intervention programs aimed at preventative treatment strategies, especially in high-risk families.

Level of evidence

III.     

Primary ligament sutures as a treatment option of knee dislocations: a meta-analysis

Purpose

Treatment of knee dislocation is still controversial. There is no evidence to favour ligament suture or reconstruction. Until now, no meta-analyses have examined suture versus reconstruction of cruciate ligaments in knee dislocations with respect to injury pattern and rupture classification.

Methods

We searched Medline, the Cochrane Controlled Trial Database, and EMBASE for studies on surgical treatment for ‘knee dislocation’ and ‘multiple ligament injured knee’. A meta-analysis was performed using individual patient data.

Results

Nine studies including 195 patients (200 knees) with a mean age of 31.4 (±13) years fulfilled the study requirements. Thirteen cases of type II dislocations, 63 cases of type III medial, 84 cases of type III lateral, and 40 cases of type IV dislocations, according to Schenck’s classification, were found. Poor or moderate results were found in 70 % of patients without surgical treatment of ACL or PCL (n = 27). Patients (n = 40) treated by sutures of the ACL and PCL demonstrated a significantly greater proportion of excellent or good results (40 and 37.5 %, respectively) (p < 0.001). Patients who underwent reconstruction of the ACL and PCL (n = 75) showed excellent or good results (28 and 45 %, respectively). No significant difference was found when comparing suture versus reconstruction of the ACL and PCL (n.s.). The outcome depends considerably on Schenck’s injury pattern classification.

Conclusion

Conservative treatment after knee dislocation yields poor clinical results. Suture repair of cruciate ligaments can still serve as an alternative option for multiligament injuries of the knee and achieve good clinical results, which are comparable to those of ligament reconstruction. The data provided by this meta-analysis should be reinforced by a prospective study, in which suture repair and ligament reconstruction are compared.

Level of evidence

IV.     

Short- to mid-term outcomes of anatomic MCL reconstruction with Achilles tendon allograft after multiligament knee injury

Purpose

Multiple techniques have been described in the literature for reconstruction of the medial collateral ligament. The purpose of this study is to describe functional outcome, range of motion, and knee stability following anatomic MCL reconstruction utilizing an Achilles tendon bone allograft after multiligament knee injury.

Methods

A comprehensive search of a single-hospital multiligament knee injury (MLKI) procedural database was conducted to identify all patients that underwent reconstruction of the MCL utilizing an Achilles tendon bone allograft and with 2-year clinical follow-up. Medical charts were retrospectively reviewed to determine each patient’s knee dislocation (KD) grade, final range of motion, stability on clinical examination, and the incidence of complications and reoperations. KOOS, IKDC, and Marx scores were also collected.

Results

Thirty-two knees in 32 patients (21 males and 11 females) with a mean age of 30 years (range 15–51) were followed for an average of 40 months (range 28–87 months) following MCL reconstruction with Achilles tendon bone allograft. For patients with multiligament knee injuries, there were 14 KD-I (11 ACL/MCL; 3 MCL/PCL; 1 MCL/ACL/LCL; 1 MCL/PCL/LCL), 12 KD 3-M, and 3 KD-IV. One patient underwent isolated revision MCL reconstruction. At final follow-up, clinically significant valgus laxity was observed in only 1 patient (3%). All patients were able to achieve full extension of the knee and the average flexion was 121.1?±?19.6. The average IKDC score was 67.6?±?19.9 (range 27.7–98.9), the average KOOS score 77.1?±?16.8 (range 31–100). The average Marx score was 4.9 (range 0–16, SD 5.2). Thirty-one of 32 (96%) patients reported being satisfied with results of the surgery. Knee dislocation grades were significantly correlated with post-operative outcome measures.

Conclusion

In a series utilizing a modified Marx Achilles tendon, MCL reconstruction in the setting of MLKI demonstrated satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes, as well as patient satisfaction at short- to mid-term follow-up. Furthermore, knee dislocation grades were demonstrated to correlate with post-operative IKDC, KOOS, and Marx scores.

Level of evidence

Type IV.