ABSTRACT

We evaluated the early results of arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures using autogenous four strand Hamstring tendon autograft.

Sixty four patients with a torn ACL were operated by arthroscopic method using autogenous four strand hamstring tendon graft. Cross pin fixation were used for femoral fixation and interference screws for the tibial side. All patients were evaluated with Lysholm knee score, IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) score and Tegner activity scoring for functional evaluation, range of motion of the joint, stability tests, thigh atropy measurements and subjective satisfaction for clinical evaluation, Kellgren and Fairbank classifications for radiological evaluation at the end of the postoperative 16.3±6.4 month.

The IKDC scores were grade A or B in 56 patients (87.5%) and grade C or D in 8 patients (12.5%). There were statistically signicant difference between control and follow-up Lysholm and Tegner activity scores (p<0.001). Anterior tibial subluxation was eliminated in 91% of the patients. Subjective satisfaction of the patients was noted as 7.60±2.74. At the last follow-up, there was no osteoarthritic changes in 52 patients (81%) in Kellgren classification, and 50 patients (%78) in Fairbank classification.

We conclude that arthroscopic reconstructions of anterior cruciate ligament with use of a four strand Hamstring tendon autograft which revealed successful functional results and also provided high personal satisfaction, is a reliable technique in the surgical treatment of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures.

Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament, autogenous Hamstring tendon graft, arthroscopic reconstruction