Abstract:

BACKGROUND: It is important to select the proper isometric point of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction procedures. Isometric point selection of ACL reconstruction with anteriomedial arthroscopic and transtibial approach is rarely reported.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical results and discuss technical issues of isometric point selection of ACL reconstruction with anteriomedial arthroscopic and transtibial approach．
METHODS: From 2007-2010, 48 cases of ACL rupture of our department were included in this research. All patients complainted of knee instability after injury and their ages were between 18-55 years. Physical exam and MRI revealed complete tear of the ligament. The patients regained 0-120°range of motion and no inflammatory or trauma was reported on skin of their knees. Patients were randomly divided into anteriomedial arthroscopic approach group (n=26) and transtibial approach group (n=22). They were technically studied to review the clinical results and the difference of femoral tunnel building between these two approaches.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The average follow-up duration was 21 months. Times for isometric point selection of ACL reconstruction with anteriomedial arthroscopic and transtibial approach were 1.80±0.25, 2.20±0.18, respectively. No significantly difference was found. Lachmann scores, Tegner scores, and angle of grafts were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Using anteriomedial arthroscopic approach and isometric point determination methods, transtibial approach could yield similar clinical results with anteromedial approach.