A new hybrid fixation method in ACL reconstruction surgery

Abstract

Introduction: There are several methods available for tibial side fixation of the reconstructed ACL ligament among which hamstring hybrid graft is a proper and widely accepted one. The present study compared biomechanical properties of the two methods for tibial side fixation of hamstring graft. Materials and methods: Sixty-one patients with isolated ACL tear were randomly allocated into two groups. Group one (cases) included 22 patients treated by the new method of ACL reconstruction surgery. The other group (control) included 24 patients with primary ACL reconstruction using single fixation method by an absorbable interference screw (BIS). In both groups Philip tack graft and BIS were used for femoral and tibial side fixation, respectively. In the new method, after BIS fixation of tibial side of the hamstring graft, the tail of the graft was passed through a 10-mm-long tunnel located 12-15 mm away from tibial tunnel and sutured to the graft under appropriate tension. Patients were assessed based on Cincinnati knee rating scale. Conclusion: Cincinnati score showed no significant difference between two groups (P > 0.05). Regarding KT2000 testing results, the case group showed better outcome with significant difference (P = 0.01). There was better edema reduction in the case group with significant difference too (P = 0.01). Higher scores in KT2000 testing and better reduction of edema in the case group represent that the new method could be advantageous besides its low cost and technical simplicity. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.