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

PURPOSE: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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). CONCLUSION: 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. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Network meta-analysis of level I-III studies.

Influence of female sex and double-quadruple semitendinosus-gracilis graft on the incidence of postoperative symptomatic cyclops lesions after ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Risk factors for the development of symptomatic cyclops lesion after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery are not entirely identified yet. This study aimed to investigate whether the choice of hamstring graft (semitendinosus-gracilis; STG vs. semitendinosus; ST) affects the risk of developing a symptomatic cyclops lesion after ACLR. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 1416 patients receiving either an ST graft (n = 1209) or an STG graft (n = 207) ACLR with a follow-up of at least 2 years. A persisting extension limitation was clinically determined, and cyclops lesions were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and second-look arthroscopy. Graft-specific incidence of cyclops lesions was examined with χ2 test and combined with the factors number of graft bundles, graft diameter and sex evaluated with a binominal logistic regression model. RESULTS: In total, 46 patients developed symptomatic cyclops lesions (3.2%), with 36 having ACLR with an ST graft (3.0%) and 10 with an STG graft (4.8%) (n.s). The mean time from ACLR to the second-look arthroscopy for cyclops removal was 1.1 ± 0.6 years. Female patients were 2.5 times more likely to develop a cyclops lesion than male patients. Patients with an STG graft and larger graft diameters did not have a higher risk of developing cyclops lesions. Patients who received an STG graft with both tendons folded four times (double-quadruple) had significantly higher risk of developing a cyclops compared with all other numbers of graft bundles combined (8.3%, respectively 3.0%; p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: This study could not prove an increased risk of developing a symptomatic cyclops lesion for patients with an STG graft compared with an ST graft used for ACLR. However, patients with a double-quadruple ACLR had a higher percentage of cyclops lesions compared with all other numbers of graft bundles. Female sex was associated with an increased risk of developing cyclops lesions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

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

CONTEXT: 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. DESIGN: Cross-sectional observational study. METHODS: The study aimed (1) to evaluate the prevalence of these types of PKP before 4 months 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 4 months 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 6/7 months post-ACLR by a hop test. RESULTS: Three hundred seventeen subjects (25.8 [6.0] y) were included. At 4 months 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 6/7 months, 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. CONCLUSIONS: 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.

Outcomes of hamstring graft with preserved tibial insertion for ACL reconstruction: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Evaluate the outcomes of ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) reconstruction techniques that use a hamstring graft with a preserved tibial insertion and compare them to standard techniques. METHODS: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was done of the PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane and Ovid databases to identify published clinical studies on ACL reconstruction in which a non-detached hamstring tendon (NDHT) was used as a graft and to compare them to studies in which a detached hamstring tendon (DHT) or other techniques were used. The eligible studies were analyzed for the knee laxity, Lachman test, pivot shift test, joint range of motion, anterior drawer, pain, re-tear, revision surgery, Lysholm score, Tegner score, ACL-RSI scale, KOOS, IKDC, SNQ and Howell scale. RESULTS: Twelve articles in which NDHT was used for ACL reconstruction were analyzed. There was no significant difference between NDHT and DHT in the Lachman > 1 (p = .07), pivot shift test > 1 (p = .40), re-tears (p = .62), pain (p = .85) and the Tegner score (p = .95). However, the outcomes were somewhat better with the NDHT technique for the Lachman (RR = 0.30; 95% CI 0.08-1.12), pivot shift test (RR = 0.50; 95% CI 0.10-2.49) and re-tears (RR = 0.66; 95% CI 0.13-3.42). The other criteria were not included in the meta-analysis because of lack of data or because specific outcome scores were used in each article. CONCLUSION: NDHT techniques provide similar results to DHT for ACL reconstruction and tend to produce better stability and a lower re-tear rate.

Knee flexor strength and symmetry vary by device, body position and angle of assessment following ACL reconstruction with hamstring grafts at long-term follow-up.

PURPOSE: Persistent deficits in knee flexor strength following harvest of semitendinosus and gracilis for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction are inconsistent in the literature. Variation in methodology, including measuring torque at higher knee flexion angles may partially explain these discrepant findings. The objective of this study was to determine whether positioning (seated vs supine), consideration of peak or joint-angle-specific torque or device (Isokinetic Dynamometer vs NordBord Hamstring Dynamometer) impact the magnitude of knee flexor strength differences between limbs. METHODS: Participants (n = 31, 44.2 ± 10.7 years,) who were at 14 ± 4.4 years follow-up for unilateral ACL reconstruction with semitendinosus/gracilis grafts completed the ACL Quality of Life outcome and an assessment including isokinetic concentric knee extensor and flexor strength in seated and supine with peak torque and torque at 60° (T60) and 75° (T75) knee flexion measured, followed by an eccentric Nordic Hamstring Curl. RESULTS: Isokinetic concentric knee flexor torque was reduced in supine relative to seated, on the reconstructed limb against the unaffected, and at higher degrees of knee flexion relative to peak torque (T60 and T75 against peak torque). Limb symmetry varied by methodology (F(6,204) = 8.506, p = 0.001) with reduced symmetry in supine T75 against all measures (71.1 ± 16.5%, p < 0.05), supine T60 against seated peak torque (82.7 ± 14.2%, p < 0.05), and the NordBord was lower than seated peak torque that was not statistically significant (83.9 ± 12.8%, n.s.). Knee extensor peak (r2 = 0.167 (F(1,27) = 5.3, p = 0.03) and Nordic curl eccentric torque (r2 = 0.267, F(2,26) = 4.736, p = 0.02) were predictors of ACL-QoL score, although a combined model did not improve over Nordic torque alone. CONCLUSION: Limb symmetry cannot be assumed in clinical practice across differing assessment methods for knee flexor strength as deficits are greatest in the supine position with torque measured at 75° knee flexion. Isokinetic knee extensor and eccentric knee flexor torque during the Nordic hamstring curl were predictors of ACL-QoL scoring and should be considered alongside patient-reported outcomes for patients following ACL reconstruction with hamstring grafts. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

No difference in revision risk between autologous hamstring graft less than 8 mm versus hybrid graft 8 mm or larger in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Hamstring autograft (HA) is commonly used for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). However, if the harvested HA is inadequate in diameter, it is often augmented with an allograft tendon, forming a hybrid graft (HY). This study sought to evaluate aseptic revision risk following HA versus HY ACLR. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed using data obtained from our healthcare system's ACLR registry. Patients ≤ 25 years of age who underwent primary isolated ACLR were identified (2005-2020). Graft type and diameter size was the primary exposure of interest: < 8 mm HA and ≥ 8 mm HY. A secondary analysis was performed to examine 7 mm HA and 7.5 mm HA vs ≥ 8 mm HY. Propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazard regression was used to evaluate the risk of aseptic revision. RESULTS: The study sample included 1,945 ACLR: 548 ≥ 8 mm HY, 651 7 mm HA, and 672 7.5 mm HA. The crude cumulative aseptic revision probability at 8-years for ≥ 8 mm HY was 9.1%, 11.1% for 7 mm HA, and 11.2% for 7.5 mm HA. In adjusted analysis, no difference in revision risk was observed for < 8 mm HA (hazard ratio [HR] 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.72-1.82), 7 mm HA (HR 1.23, 95% CI 0.71-2.11), or 7.5 mm HA (HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.74-1.82) compared to ≥ 8 mm HY. CONCLUSION: In a US-based cohort of ACLR patients aged ≤ 25 years, we failed to observe any differences in aseptic revision risk for HA < 8 mm compared to HY ≥ 8 mm. Augmentation of a HA as small as 7 mm is not necessary to prevent a revision surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Adjustable-loop implants are non-inferior to fixed-loop implants for femoral fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Button implants with an adjustable-loop device (ALD) are often used in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Clinical research comparing ALDs with fixed-loop devices (FLD) has mainly been conducted in small patient populations with short follow-up times. To determine whether ALDs are safe to use in ACLR, a non-inferiority study with a large sample population and a long follow-up period would be beneficial. This study compared ALDs with FLDs to determine non-inferior revision surgery rates, knee stability, and patient-reported outcomes (PROM) in ACLRs. METHODS: This non-inferiority register-based cohort study was conducted using data from the Danish Knee Ligament Reconstruction Registry (DKRR). A total of 12,723 patients > 15 years of age with primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autografts and either an FLD or ALD for femoral fixation were included: 9719 patients were in the FLD group, and 3014 patients were in the ALD group. The primary outcome was revision ACLR with a non-inferiority margin for ALDs at 4% at the 2-year follow-up. The secondary outcomes were anterior and rotatory knee stability and PROMs based on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at the 1-year follow-up. RESULTS: The crude cumulative revision rates in ALD implants at 2 and 5 years were 2.1% (95% CI 1.62-2.68) and 5.0% (95% CI 4.22-5.96), respectively. In the FLD group, the rates were 2.2% (95% CI 1.89-2.48) at 2 years and 4.7% (95% CI 4.31-5.20) at 5 years. The 1-year side-to-side differences were 0.97 mm (95% CI 0.90-1.03) in the ALD group and 1.45 mm (95% CI 1.41-1.49) in the FLD group. In the FLD group, 13% had a positive pivot shift, and in the ALD group, 6% had a positive pivot shift. There were no differences in KOOS. CONCLUSION: ALDs were non-inferior to FLDs regarding revision rates, knee stability, and patient-reported outcomes. Based on this conclusion, ALDs are safe to use for femoral fixation in ACLR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Meniscal resection increases the risk of residual knee laxity even in patients undergoing anatomic double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with eight strands of hamstring autografts.

PURPOSE: To compare the midterm clinical outcomes of different meniscal surgeries in patients undergoing anatomic double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (DB-ACLR) with eight strands of hamstring (HT8) autografts and explore the potential predictive risk factors for residual knee laxity. METHODS: From 2010 to 2017, a total of 410 patients who underwent anatomic trans-tibial DB-ACLR with HT8 autografts (169 patients without meniscal surgery, 105 patients with meniscal repair, and 136 patients with meniscal resection) were included in this study. The equivalent graft diameter was introduced to make the total graft size of DB-ACLR comparable with that of single-bundle ACLR and calculated as the square root of the quadratic sum of the diameter for each bundle. Residual laxity was defined as excessive anterior tibial translation or residual pivot shift at any follow-up visit, while graft rupture was confirmed by second-look arthroscopy or magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 8.3 ± 2.2 years. The mean equivalent graft diameter was 9.9 ± 0.7 mm. Graft rupture was confirmed in 16 (3.9%) patients, while residual laxity was detected in 72 (17.6%) patients (34 [25.0%] in the meniscal resection group vs. 22 [13.0%] in the no meniscal surgery group, p = 0.021). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, high-grade preoperative knee laxity (odds ratio OR 2.04, p = 0.020), equivalent graft diameter < 9 mm (OR 3.31 compared with 9-10 mm, p = 0.012; OR 3.28 compared with ≥ 10 mm, p = 0.019), and meniscal resection (OR 1.94 compared with no meniscal surgery, p = 0.045) were associated with residual laxity. CONCLUSION: During a midterm follow-up, meniscal resection increased the risk of residual knee laxity even in patients undergoing anatomic DB-ACLR with HT8 autografts. Increasing the hamstring graft diameter and preserving the menisci are important strategies for ACLR to restore knee stability. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Comparison of two different types of hybrid Tibial fixations for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a prospective comparative cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have compared different kinds of fixations for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Nevertheless, there is no optimal method to date. To the best of authors' knowledge, there is no article discussing the combination of adjustable suspensory device and interference screw for hybrid tibial fixation. METHODS: In total, 66 patients (n = 34, adjustable suspensory device and interference screw; n = 32, cortical screw and interference screw) were analyzed. Their International Knee Documentation Committee score and Tegner activity level scale were evaluated before and after a 2-year follow-up. The Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score was evaluated after a 2-year follow-up. Physical exams such as range of motion, anterior knee pain (VAS > = 3) and Lachman test were assessed before and at least 12 months after surgery. To evaluate tunnel widening, anteroposterior and lateral view radiography was conducted 1 day and at least 12 months after surgery. A more than 10% change was considered tibial tunnel widening. Mann-Whitney U test, independent t test, paired t test, Fisher's exact test and chi-squared test were used to compare the variables. Linear and logistic regression models were applied to adjust for potential confounders. RESULTS: No variable except gender (P = 0.006) showed significant difference with regard to demographic data. After adjustment, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding post-operative physical exams. Patients who used adjustable suspensory device and interference screw had lower post-operative Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score (adjusted ß - 8.194; P = 0.017), Tegner activity level scale (adjusted ß - 1.295; P = 0.001) and pre-operative degrees of knee flexion (adjusted ß - 2.825; P = 0.026). Less percentage of tunnel widening in the lateral view of radiographs was seen in patients in group of adjustable suspensory device and interference screw (adjusted ß - 1.733; P = 0.038). No significant difference was observed in the anteroposterior view of radiographs (adjusted ß - 0.667; P = 0.26). CONCLUSION: In these 66 patients, we observed less tibial tunnel widening and lower post-operative functional scores in the group of adjustable suspensory device and interference screw. Both groups displayed similar outcomes of physical exams as well as improvement after operation. The proposed method may become an alternative option. Nonetheless, the quality of our study is still limited, and thus further studies are warranted to determine the efficacy and further application. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Joint Institutional Review Board of Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan (No: N201805094 ). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective comparative cohort study; Level of evidence, II.

No differences found in long-term outcomes of a randomized controlled trial comparing ipsilateral versus contralateral hamstring graft in ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Contralateral graft harvest in primary ACL reconstruction is relatively uncommon and the long-term comparative of this approach relative to ipsilateral harvest has not been described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ACL graft and contralateral rupture following ipsilateral or contralateral semitendinosus and gracilis (STG) graft harvest at follow-up of a minimum 10 years post-reconstruction in the treatment of a complete ACL tear. METHODS: Patients from a previous randomized trial were evaluated. The primary outcome measures were ipsilateral and contralateral reinjury as well as the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee assessment form, the ACL Quality of Life questionnaire (ACL-QoL) and the Tegner activity scale. Participants completed four different single-leg hop tests and concentric knee flexion and extension strength were assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer. RESULTS: Of the original 100 patients, 50 patients (41.3 ± 9.5 years of age, 31 males, 19 females) reported on re-injury at 12.6 ± 1.4 years post-operative. Thirty-eight patients returned for full assessment and 12 responded by mail or phone survey. There were no differences between groups for graft rupture, contralateral injury, ACL-QoL score, IKDC categorization, or anterior tibial translation, though both groups experienced a reduction in the Tegner Activity Scale from their preinjury scores. There was no difference in knee flexor and extensor isokinetic concentric strength, or single leg hop test performance. Knee flexor strength limb symmetry index was reduced when measured in the supine relative to the seated position in both groups, indicating persistent deficits in knee flexor strength when measured in the supine position. CONCLUSION: Contralateral hamstring harvest does not put patients at an increased risk of a contralateral ACL tear and long-term outcomes of ACL reconstruction do not differ based on the side of graft harvest. Contralateral STG harvest may provide a safe alternative surgical option for select patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with short hamstring grafts: the choice of femoral fixation device matters in controlling overall lengthening.

PURPOSE: The purpose was to conduct an independent biomechanical study comparing the main types of femoral fixation adapted to short hamstring grafts in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery and to validate their performance. METHODS: The ACLip® Femoral, ToggleLoc™ Ziploop (TLZ), and Tape Locking Screw (TLS®) implants were tested in tension in the following three different configurations: implant alone, implant fixed on the femur without graft, and implant fixed on the femur with graft. Grafts alone were also tested. The femurs and the 4-strand semi-tendinosus grafts were derived from porcine and human models, respectively. Each set-up was subjected to the same protocol of creep (50 N for 30 s), cycling (1000 cycles between 50 and 250 N, 1 Hz), and load to failure (50 mm/min). RESULTS: A total of 93 tests were performed (30 ACLip®, 30 TLZ, 20 TLS®, and 13 ST4 alone). For the implants tested with femur and graft, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) overall elongation at 250 N after cycling was 5.2 ± 0.2 mm, 8.4 ± 2.1 mm, and 5.3 ± 0.8 mm, the mean ± SD ultimate load to failure was 736 ± 116 N, 830 ± 204 N, and 640 ± 242 N, and the mean ± SD stiffness at the 1000th cycle was 185 ± 15 N/mm, 172 ± 19 N/mm, and 178 ± 21 N/mm for ACLip®, ToggleLoc™, and TLS® devices, respectively. There was no significant difference between the implants except for post-cycling elongation between TLZ and the other two implants (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The choice of femoral fixation device plays a decisive role in controlling the overall lengthening of an ACL reconstruction using a short hamstring graft. All implants validated the specifications in terms of ultimate load to failure, the TLS® system had, however, a low performance limit. ToggleLoc™ with adjustable loop should no longer be used on the femur side; instead the other types of fixation should be used to improve the overall elongation control.

Hamstring graft diameter above 7 mm has a lower risk of failure following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Multi-stranded hamstring-tendon autografts have been widely used for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgeries. Recently, smaller diameter hamstring autografts have been linked with the risk of failure or graft rupture. However, there is limited evidence concerning the optimal diameter of the hamstring autografts for ACLR. The current systematic review and meta-analysis analysed the association of ACLR failure with the diameter of hamstring autografts. METHODS: A systematic search of three major scientific databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library) was conducted to identify studies that presented ACLR failure-related outcomes with different diameters of hamstring autografts. The pooled data from the included studies were analysed to investigate the association between ACLR failure and the cut-off diameters of 6, 7, 8, and 9 mm. Subgroup analyses based on the level of evidence and follow-up duration were also performed at each cut-off diameter. RESULTS: Of the 2282 studies screened, 16 reported failure rates with hamstring autografts of different diameters, 15 of which were included in the meta-analysis. A graft diameter ≥ 7 mm was associated with significantly lower ACLR failure rates than a graft diameter < 7 mm (p = 0.005), based on pooled data of 19,799 cases. Age < 20 years and higher physical activity were associated with significantly higher ACLR failure rates. CONCLUSION: The current systematic review suggests that the hamstring graft diameter for ACLR should be more than 7 mm considering the significantly higher failure rates with graft diameters less than 7 mm. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Comparison of hamstring and quadriceps tendon autografts in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with gait analysis and surface electromyography.

BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is the most frequent ligamentous injury of the knee joint. Autografts of hamstring (HS) or quadriceps tendons (QT) are used for primary ACL reconstruction. In this study, we planned to examine whether harvesting an HS graft is related to a deficit in dynamic knee stabilisation and strength revealed by dynamic valgus as compared with QT graft or the uninjured leg. Furthermore, if this deficit exists, is it compensated by higher neuromuscular activity of the quadriceps muscle? MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult patients who had undergone ACL reconstruction with QT or HS autografts were included in this two-armed cohort study. Clinical outcome was assessed by clinical data analysis, physical examination and the Lysholm Score and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Score (KOOS). In addition, gait analysis and non-invasive surface electromyography were performed. RESULTS: A complete data set of 25 patients (QT: N = 8, HS: N = 17) was analysed. There was no significant demographic difference between the groups. Time between surgery and follow-up was significantly longer for the QT group. Significant differences regarding clinical outcome were not found between the treated and untreated leg or between the two groups, with excellent scores at the time of follow-up. Gait analysis revealed no significant differences of varus-valgus angles. Significant differences in surface electromyography were only found in the QT group with increased vastus medialis obliquus activity of the treated legs (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that harvesting of HS grafts for primary ACL reconstruction will not lead to a medial collapse and consequently impaired medial stabilisation of the knee when compared with QT grafts. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Anthropometric correlation with hamstring graft size in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction among males.

PURPOSE: Pre-operative knowledge of hamstring graft size for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL) is of clinical importance and useful in making appropriate decisions about graft choice. This study investigated if there is any correlation between anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, body mass index, thigh length, and circumference with the size of hamstring tendon graft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. METHODS: The anthropometric data of 50 consecutive adult males, who underwent primary ACL reconstruction using quadruple hamstring autograft, were collected prospectively. Data analysis using Pearson's correlation test was performed and multiple logistic regression analysis was used to investigate any correlation not detected by Pearson's test and to eliminate confounders. RESULTS: Patient's height and thigh length demonstrated a positive correlation with gracilis graft length (r = .464, P = .001, r = .456, P = .001, respectively) and semitendinosus graft length (r = .541, P = 000, r = .578, P = .000, respectively). While the patient's age was the only independent factor which had a positive correlation with the quadrupled hamstring graft diameter (r = .412, P = .004), multiple regression analysis showed abdominal girth had a significant negative correlation with gracilis (P = .04) and semitendinosus (P = .006) graft thickness. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that some anthropometric measurements had a positive correlation with the hamstring graft length and diameter in male patients. Hence, these results provide preliminary support for the use of some anthropometric measurements in the preoperative planning and prediction of the hamstring graft length and diameter in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

The single-suture technique for anterior cruciate ligament graft preparation provides similar stability as a three-suture technique: a biomechanical in vitro study in a porcine model.

PURPOSE: Numerous techniques have been described for the tibial-sided graft preparation in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The use of less suture material for graft preparation is thought to improve ingrowth and to reduce the risk for infection. At the same time, the suture construct should be strong enough to resist the surgeon's pull during tensioning of the transplant. METHODS: In total, 39 fresh-frozen procine deep flexor tendons were used and prepared as four-strand grafts. In the three-suture group (n = 19), graft preparation was performed using three tibial-sided sutures, with each tendon end sutured separately. In the one-suture group (n = 20), a modified graft preparation using only one tibial-sided suture was applied. Each sample underwent load-to-failure testing (Nmax) after cyclic pre-loading. To estimate intraoperative tension forces acting on the tibial-sided suture constructs, the maximal tension force of 26 volunteers on such a construct was measured using a load cell. RESULTS: The biomechanical testing of the two different suture constructs showed a significantly higher load-to-failure for the three-suture group (711 N ± 91 N) compared to the one-suture group (347 N ± 24 N) (p = 0.0001). In both groups, the mode of failure was a tear of the suture in all samples. A failure of the suture-tendon interface was not observed in any case. The median maximal tension force on the construct applied by the 26 volunteers was 134 N (range 73-182 N). CONCLUSION: The presented single-suture tendon graft preparation resisted to smaller failure loads than the conventional three-suture technique. However, no failures in the suture-tendon interface were seen and the failure loads observed were far beyond the tension forces that can be expected intraoperatively. Hence, the single-suture graft preparation technique may be a valuable alternative to the conventional technique.

Is quadruple semitendinosus tendon strands autograft a better choice than hamstring autograft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction? A comparative study with a mean follow-up of 3 years.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of ST4 with those of STGs with a minimum follow-up of 3 years. The hypothesis was that functional outcomes of the ST4 technique are at least as good as those of the STG technique. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study. Level of evidence, 3 METHODS: Eighty-seven consecutive patients underwent isolated ACL reconstruction, 50 with the ST4 and 37 with STG. At the femoral side for both groups, the system of the fixation of the graft used a cortical fixation support and at the tibial side the group STG used an interference screw and the ST4 group used a tape locked system fixed by an interference screw. Clinical results were compared: IKDC score, KT-1000 arthrometry, radiologic evaluation of the differential laxity, as well as the Tegner score and the KOOS score. RESULTS: Two patients had a rerupture (STG), one in the ST4 group. The analysis of the subjective clinical results showed no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. Differential laximetry was 0.7 mm ± 0.4 (0 to 2 mm) for the ST4 group and 1.6 ± 0.5 mm (0 to 3 mm) for the STG group with a statistically significant difference in favor of the ST4 group (p < 0.05). Age, sex, and presence of meniscal lesions were the factors influencing the KOOS score. CONCLUSION: This study comparing the clinical and laximetric results at the minimum 3-year follow-up of 2 ACL reconstruction techniques (ST4 vs STG) confirms the working hypothesis with an overall better score for the ST4 group.

The gracilis tendon autograft is a safe choice for orthopedic reconstructive procedures: a consecutive case series studying the effects of tendon harvesting.

BACKGROUND: The gracilis tendon is commonly used as an autograft to reconstruct torn tendons or ligaments in many parts of the body. Little is known about the subjective and functional outcome after gracilis tendon harvest. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of the donor leg in patients undergoing such surgery. METHODS: Patients with chronic acromioclavicular joint dislocations undergoing coracoclavicular ligament reconstructions using autogenous gracilis tendon grafts were eligible for this study. The graft harvesting procedure was carried out in a standard fashion using a tendon stripper. Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were collected preoperatively and after 12 months. The first 5 patients were included retrospectively and lacked preoperative data, for these patients age- and gender matched normative KOOS scores were used as baseline values. Isometric knee flexor strength in 60° and 90° degrees of flexion was measured at final follow up at a median of 26 (14-56) months postoperatively with the non-operated leg used as reference. RESULTS: Twenty four patients were eligible for the study and 2 were excluded. The 22 patients available for analysis had a mean age of 44 (22-62) years at the time of surgery and 4 were women. There was no statistically significant change in KOOS 12 months postoperatively compared to baseline values but the patients were weaker in knee flexion in the operated leg compared to the non-operated one. CONCLUSIONS: Gracilis tendon harvesting results in a weakness of knee flexion but does not impair subjective knee function and is a procedure that can be recommended when an autogenous tendon graft is needed.

No difference in sensory outcome between vertical and oblique incisions for hamstring graft harvest during ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To compare the incidence, extent of sensory loss, its clinical effect and natural course caused by sensory nerve injury, during two different skin incisions used for autogenous hamstring graft harvest during ACL reconstruction. METHODS: This randomized prospective study was carried out on 84 patients, divided into two groups, all of them underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendon graft with two incisions; a vertical incision used in 43 patients, and an oblique incision in 41 patients. The location and area of sensory loss were evaluated during follow-up as well as the degree of improvement and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: The average age in this study was 29.8 ± 7.2 in the vertical group and 29.9 ± 6.3 in the oblique group. Both semitendinosus and gracilles were harvested in 34 patients, semitendinosus in 49 patients and gracilles in one patient. In the vertical group, a higher incidence of sensory loss was recorded with 21 patients (51.2%), relative to the oblique group with 18 patients (41.9%). However, there was no statistically significant difference (p = n.s). Most of the sensory loss affected the distribution of the IPBSN (infrapatellar branch of saphenous nerve) in 27 patients (69.2%) in both groups, and to a lesser extent in the lower medial area [distribution of SBSN (sartorial branch of saphenous nerve)] in 12 patients (30.8%). CONCLUSION: This study clearly revealed the high incidence of nerve injury particularly the IPBSN during hamstring graft harvest, but did not prove a difference between oblique and vertical incisions, with regard to postoperative sensory loss. It was clear that harvesting the semitendinosus alone is not a factor that can diminish nerve injury. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Independent clinical appraisal of the Tape Locking Screw (TLS®) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction technique compared with the hamstring graft technique with a minimum of 12-month follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to assess the differential laxity after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) by the TLS® technique using a single tendon, the semitendinosus in four-strand graft, compared with the hamstring technique which uses both the gracilis and semitendinosus. We hypothesised that this surgical technique would provide post-surgical differential laxity measurements at least as good as those of the hamstring technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We carried out a prospective monocentric study on patients undergoing unilateral anterior cruciate ligament repair between December 2014 and June 2016. All patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The series compares 61 patients operated on using the TLS® technique by the same surgeon, with 33 patients operated on using the hamstring technique by a second surgeon. The main objective of the study was to compare the post-operative differential laxity, measured using the KT1000, between the two techniques. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the patients' epidemiological characteristics and pre-operative scores between the two groups. Average pre-operative differential laxity was 6.5 mm ± 2.1 (min 3; max 12) in the TLS group and 6.4 mm ± 2.0 (min 0; max 11) in the hamstring group, with no statistically significant difference. The average post-operative difference in laxity was - 0.1 mm ± 1.9 (min - 5; max 4) in the TLS group and 0.3 mm ± 2.0 (min - 7; max 5) in the hamstring group. Again, no significant difference was observed between groups. DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates a level of post-operative differential laxity control using TLS comparable with that of the ACL reconstruction technique using a hamstring graft with preserved tibial insertion. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II, prospective cohort study.

ACL reconstruction using 5- or 6-strand hamstring autograft provides graft's diameter bigger than 8 mm.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to measure the diameters of 5- and 6-strand hamstring autografts and to evaluate the predictability of their thickness by other body size indices. METHODS: Data were collected from 122 skeletally mature adult patients, who had undergone arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using only 5- or 6-strand hamstring autografts. The diameters of tibial and femoral ends of the grafts were measured with the precision of 0.5 mm. Multiple linear regression was performed to determine the relationship between autograft's thickness and body size indices. RESULTS: The diameter of the femoral end of the 5-strand graft in male/female patients on average was 8.9/8.3 mm, while the femoral end of the 6-strand graft-9.3/8.5 mm (respectively). In 98.4% of the cases, 5- or 6-strand hamstring autografts were significantly thicker than 8 mm. In 5-strand group, a significant positive correlation was detected between the diameter of autograft's femoral end and patient's height (r = 0.55; p < 0.001), weight (r = 0.60; p < 0.001) and BMI (r = 0.43; p < 0.01). The 6-strand group had statistically significant correlations between the femoral end of the graft and height (r = 0.53; p < 0.001), and femoral end of the graft and weight (r = 0.50; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Hamstring autografts were significantly thicker than 8 mm. Taller and heavier persons tended to have greater diameters of hamstring autografts; however, to better predict the diameter of autograft, body composition should be studied in relation to autograft's size. Preparation of 5- or 6-strand graft (using all the length of hamstring tendons) provides almost 100% of probability to obtain graft's diameter bigger than 8 mm. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.