Authors:

Matjaz Sajovic1, Igor Vucajnk1 and Natasa Sipka2

1Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Trauma Surgery, General Teaching Hospital Celje, Oblakova 5, 3000 Celje, Slovenia2Rehabilitation Center Spa Zrece, Cesta na Roglo 15, 3214 Zrece, Slovenia

Source:

Journal of Sports Medicine & Doping Studies

Abstract
 

Objective:

The goal of our study is to show that after single-bundle anatomic ACL reconstruction technique using hamstring tendon autograft (quadrupled semitendinosus and gracillis tendons), there is excellent objective knee stability and the return of flexor muscles strength.

Methods:

65 patients aged 13–46 entered our study and were operated with a single bundle ACL reconstruction technique using hamstring tendon autograft. The operation and postoperative protocol were standardized. Patients were evaluated at 3 and 6 months postoperatively with clinical examination, KT–1000 measurements, functional scores (Balance index, Hop index, IKDC, isokinetic testing) and subjective questionnaire (Lysholm score, Tegner score).

Results:

65 patients were evaluated 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Lachman test was negative in 92% and the pivot-shift test was negative in 89% of patients at 6 months follow-up. KT–1000 stability testing revealed a difference of 1.05 mm ± 2.83. At final follow-up, overall IKDC evaluation grade A and B were obtained in 96% of patients. The mean Lysholm score, 6 months postoperative was 94. There was no statistically significant difference in the angle of peak torque inflexion at 60°/s at 6 months follow-up.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that the strength of knee flexion six months after harvesting both hamstring tendons returns. However, there is still a statistically significant difference in knee flexion peak torque, when comparing the operative and non-operative side. Single bundle anatomic ACL reconstruction gives excellent knee stability and good clinical results with normal knee range of motion and returns to the appropriate level of activity.

Keywords: 

ACL; Reconstruction; Single bundle; Hamstring tendon; Autograft

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