Clinical outcome after implant-free ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon graft.

Introduction: To assess the outcome of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with quadruple hamstring tendon graft using all press-fit technique with bone plugs near the native insertion of the ACL. Patients and methods: This prospective study included 50 consecutive active patients. There were 47 males and 3 females. The mean age was 30 years (range 17-44). The mean follow-up was 24 months (range 12-48). Patients were evaluated using subjective as well as objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) assessment forms, Tegner Lysholm knee score. Instrumental testing included digital rolimeter as well as the KT-1000 testing. Results: Assessment using IKDC scoring revealed that 95 % of the patients had normal or nearly normal knee (IKDC score of A/B). Postoperative level of activity was excellent in 82 % of patients. The mean side-to-side difference using the digital rolimeter measurements was 1.3 mm (range 0.1-5.5 mm). The mean side-to-side difference using the KT 1000 measurements was 1.4 mm (range 0-5 mm). On pivot shift test, we have 97 % of our patients with either equal pivot shift tests on both sides or just a glide. The mean preoperative Tegner Lysholm score was 52 (41-90) while the mean postoperative score was 92 (range 67-100). We found no graft displacement on follow-up radiographs. Conclusion: This study showed that arthroscopic ACL reconstruction with quadruple hamstring tendon graft using all press-fit technique with bone plugs is a reliable, cost-effective technique with fast bone-to-bone healing, and ease for revision surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]