Publication:

Clinical and functional outcome of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using autologous graft with biodegradable interference screw and adjustable loop endobutton: a prospective study

Background Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a common cause of knee instability, functional impairment, and increased risk of secondary meniscal injury and early osteoarthritis. Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is the gold standard treatment for symptomatic ACL tears. Secure graft fixation using an autologous hamstring graft, biodegradable interference screw, and adjustable-loop Endobutton provides stable fixation, promotes graft incorporation, and facilitates early rehabilitation.

Methods This prospective observational study included 60 patients with symptomatic ACL rupture treated at the Department of Orthopaedics, Sardar Patel Medical College and Associated Group of Hospitals, Bikaner. Preoperative assessment included clinical examination, MRI, Lysholm score, IKDC grading, and stability tests. All patients underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using an autologous hamstring graft with femoral fixation by an adjustable-loop Endobutton and tibial fixation using a biodegradable interference screw. Functional outcomes and complications were evaluated during follow-up.

Results The mean patient age was 28.9±6.3 years, and 81.7% were male. At final follow-up, 68.3% achieved an excellent Lysholm score, while 46.7% and 40.0% were graded as normal and nearly normal, respectively, on the IKDC scale. Most patients demonstrated restored knee stability with minimal complications. No implant failure, deep infection, or neurovascular injury was observed.

Conclusion Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using an autologous hamstring graft with biodegradable interference screw and adjustable-loop Endobutton provides excellent functional outcomes, reliable knee stability, and a low complication rate, making it a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic ACL injuries.