Publication:

Comparison between functional outcome of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using single bundle six fold and four fold semitendinosus and gracilis graft

Background With increase participation in sports activities, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common and functionally disabling injury. Hamstring tendon as autografts for arthroscopic ACL reconstructions have shown good clinical and functional outcome in patients. The purpose of present study was to compare the functional outcome of arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using single bundle six fold and four fold ST and G graft.

Methods This was a prospective study conducted between period June 2008 to December 2010.181 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction were screened and 113 patients fulfilling the inclusion exclusion criteria were selected for the study.

Results All patients completed a minimum of 1 years follow up. In 4 fold group 27.50% were having grade 1 anterior drawer test 22.50% were having grade 1 Lachman test and 17.50% had grade 1 pivot shift test as compared to 6 fold group 6.66% had grade 1 anterior drawer test, 11.66% had grade 1 Lachman test, and 3.33% had grade 1 pivot shift test respectively which was statistically significant (p<0.05).

Conclusions Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using six fold graft is effective modality of treatment in patient with ACL deficient knee. Six fold graft is thicker in diameter and cross sectional area as compared to four fold graft which occupies more surface area of normal ACL foot print and gives better stability of knee joint in both AP and rotational plane.