Temporal Kinematic Differences between Forward and Backward Jump-Landing

Backward jump-landing during sports performance will result in dynamic postural instability with a greater risk of injury, and most research studies have focused on forward landing. Differences in kinematic temporal characteristics between single-leg and double-leg backward jump-landing are seldom researched and understood. The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze lower extremity kinematic differences throughout the landing phases of forward and backward jumping using single-leg and double-leg landings (FS and BS, FD and BD). Kinematic data were collected during the landing phases of FS and BS, FD and BD in 45 participants. Through statistical parametric mapping (SPM) analysis, we found that the BS showed smaller hip and knee flexion and greater vertical ground reactive force (VGRF) than the FS during 0–37.42% (p = 0.031), 16.07–32.11% (p = 0.045), and 23.03–17.32% (p = 0.041) landing phases. The BD showed smaller hip and knee flexion than the FD during 0–20.66% (p = 0.047) and 0–100% (p < 0.001) landing phases. Most differences appeared within a time frame during the landing phase at 30–50 ms in which non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are thought to occur and are consistent with the identification of risk in biomechanical analysis. A landing strategy that consciously increases the knee and hip flexion angles during backward landing should be considered for people as a measure to avoid injury during the performance of this type of physical activity.

[Effectiveness comparison of LARS artificial ligament and autogenous hamstring tendon in one-stage reconstruction of anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of arthroscopic one-stage reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) with LARS artificial ligament and autogenous hamstring tendon, respectively.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on 23 patients with ACL and PCL injuries, who were treated with one-stage reconstruction, between June 2013 and June 2017. The ACL and PCL were reconstructed with LARS artificial ligament in 11 patients (artificial ligament group) and autogenous hamstring tendon in 12 patients (autogenous tendon group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, side of injury, cause of injury, time from injury to operation, and preoperative Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score between the two groups ( P>0.05). The operation time, the time of recovery of daily activities and preoperative exercise level, the occurrence of surgical-related complications, Lysholm score, IKDC score, and the results of knee stability assessment were recorded and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The operation time and the time of recovery of daily activities and preoperative exercise level were significantly shorter in artificial ligament group than in autogenous tendon group ( P<0.05). All incisions healed primarily. In autogenous tendon group, the common fibular nerve injury occurred in 1 case and intermuscular vein thrombosis occurred in 1 case. No complication occurred in the remaining patients of the two groups. All the patients were followed up 24-54 months (mean, 36.4 months). At last follow-up, the Lysholm score and IKDC score of the two groups were significantly higher than preoperative scores ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05). The varus and valgus stress tests of the two groups were negative. There was no significant difference in anterior drawer test, posterior drawer test, and Lachman test between the two groups ( P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The effectiveness of arthroscopic one-stage reconstruction of ACL and PCL with LARS artificial ligament or autogenous hamstring tendon was similar. The knee function and stability recover well. But the patients with LARS artificial ligament reconstruction can resume daily activities and return to exercise earlier.

Surgical intra- and extra-articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

It is still controversial whether the combination of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and extra-articular reconstruction (EAR) have good clinical efficacy. This meta-analysis aims systematically to compare the clinical effectiveness of ACL reconstruction and combined reconstruction.

METHODS

Electronic databases, including Medline/PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library, were systematically searched to identify targeted studies. A meta-analysis were performed to pool the outcome estimates of interest, such as the Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Tegner scores and the results from the KT-1000/2000 arthrometer test, the Lachman test and the pivot shift test.

RESULTS

Twelve studies involving 1146 knees were identified. Compared with single ACL reconstruction, combined reconstruction had better results for a pivot shift of grade 1 (relative ratio [RR] = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.83-0.94) and grade 2 (RR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91-0.99) rather than grade 3 (RR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.90-1.06) and no statistically significant difference for both Lachman grade 1 (RR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.89-1.05) and grade 2 (RR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.90-1.03). Combined reconstruction resulted in significant improvements on the instrumented joint laxity test when considering a failure standard of more than 5 mm (a side-to-side arthrometric difference) (RR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89-0.98) rather than 3 mm (RR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.86-1.03). Moreover, combined reconstruction increased the IKDC score at the 12-month (weighted mean difference [WMD] = - 6.38, 95% CI: - 9.66 to - 3.10), 24-month (WMD = - 5.60, 95% CI: - 8.54 to - 2.66) and 36-month follow-ups (WMD = - 4.71, 95% CI: - 7.59 to - 1.83) and the Tegner score at the 36-month follow-up (WMD = - 0.53, 95% CI: - 0.97 to - 0.09), but it did not increase the Lysholm score at the 36-month follow-up (WMD = - 0.84, 95% CI: - 2.02 to 0.34).

CONCLUSION

With the advances in reconstruction techniques, combined reconstructions were found to be effective in improving rotational stability and to lead to good functional scores. However, obviously, the combined reconstruction technique is more time-consuming and requires an additional incision, which is not suitable for all ACL-deficient patients. Therefore, programs should be personalized and customized for the specific situation of each patient.

Quantification of Triple Single-Leg Hop Test Temporospatial Parameters: A Validated Method using Body-Worn Sensors for Functional Evaluation after Knee Injury

Lower extremity kinematic alterations associated with sport-related knee injuries may contribute to an unsuccessful return to sport or early-onset post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Also, without access to sophisticated motion-capture systems, temporospatial monitoring of horizontal hop tests during clinical assessments is limited. By applying an alternative measurement system of two inertial measurement units (IMUs) per limb, we obtained and validated flying/landing times and hop distances of triple single-leg hop (TSLH) test against motion-capture cameras, assessed these temporospatial parameters amongst injured and uninjured groups, and investigated their association with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Using kinematic features of IMU recordings, strap-down integration, and velocity correction techniques, temporospatial parameters were validated for 10 able-bodied participants and compared between 22 youth with sport-related knee injuries and 10 uninjured youth. With median (interquartile range) errors less than 10(16) ms for flying/landing times, and less than 4.4(5.6)% and 2.4(3.0)% of reference values for individual hops and total TSLH progression, differences between hopping biomechanics of study groups were highlighted. For injured participants, second flying time and all hop distances demonstrated moderate to strong correlations with KOOS Symptom and Function in Daily Living scores. Detailed temporospatial monitoring of hop tests is feasible using the proposed IMUs system.

Editorial Commentary: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation of the Anterolateral Complex-Is Seeing Really Believing?

The anatomic and biomechanical role of the anterolateral complex (ALC) of the knee has gained increased interest in recent years. Specifically, a keen focus has been on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of the ALC in the setting of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Although many of these studies are well designed and conducted, they are based on a foundation of controversial gross anatomy and MRI protocols and scanners not typically used in standard practice. Ultimately, there is a lack of correlation between MRI evidence of injury to the ALC and clinical evaluation of anterolateral rotatory laxity. So, do we believe in what we see or believe in what we feel?

[Reconstruction of medial collateral ligament: Description of a new augmentation technique with allograft and interference biocomposite screws]

INTRODUCTION

Medial Collateral Ligament (LCM) instability is associated with multi-ligamentary lesions. There are several procedures for the reconstruction of MCL, we present a percutaneous technique of augmentation. Our goal is to describe a new technique of reconstruction of the LCM by grafting and fixing with biocomposite screws.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We present the technique in a total of 21 consecutive patients with MCL injury operated in the period of December 2011 to October 2014. Reconstruction of MCL was performed with long, tibial or long hallux tendon allografts in 18 patients and only one patient was used autograft. Eighteen of the 20 patients had associated lesions: 5 with medial meniscus injury, 8 with anterior cruciate ligament injury, (ACL), 8 with condral injury and 1 with lateral meniscus injury.

CONCLUSION

The surgical technique presented is simple to perform, without damage to other structures and with a strong fixation.

The Impact of ACL Laxity on a Bicondylar Robotic Knee and Implications in Human Joint Biomechanics

OBJECTIVE

Elucidating the role of structural mechanisms in the knee can improve joint surgeries, rehabilitation, and understanding of biped locomotion. Identification of key features, however, is challenging due to limitations in simulation and in-vivo studies. In particular the coupling of the patello-femoral and tibio-femoral joints with ligaments and its impact on joint mechanics and movement is not understood. We investigate this coupling experimentally through the design and testing of a robotic sagittal plane model.

METHODS

We constructed a sagittal plane robot comprised of: 1) elastic links representing cruciate ligaments; 2) a bi-condylar joint; 3) a patella; and 4) actuator hamstrings and quadriceps. Stiffness and geometry were derived from anthropometric data. [Formula: see text] squatting tests were executed at speeds of [Formula: see text] over a range of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) slack lengths.

RESULTS

Increasing ACL length compromised joint stability, yet did not impact quadriceps mechanical advantage and force required for squat. The trend was consistent through varying condyle contact point and ligament force changes.

CONCLUSION

The geometry of the condyles allows the ratio of quadriceps to patella tendon force to compensate for contact point changes imparted by the removal of the ACL. Thus the system maintains a constant mechanical advantage.

SIGNIFICANCE

The investigation uncovers critical features of human knee biomechanics. Findings contribute to understanding of knee ligament damage, inform procedures for knee surgery and orthopaedic implant design, and support design of trans-femoral prosthetics and walking robots. Results further demonstrate the utility of robotics as a powerful means of studying human joint biomechanics.

Editorial Commentary: Fifty Is the New 30? Do Patients in Their 50s Deserve an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction?

Evidence suggests that anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in patients older than 50 years of age has similar outcomes when compared with younger patients. However, poorer results are associated with advanced degenerative intra-articular chondral changes. The caveat here is that these conclusions are mainly based on retrospective level IV case series. The question is whether functionally unstable patients 50 years and older, whether active or not, benefit from surgical reconstruction and the answer is clearly yes. It provides restoration of function and should be considered in active older patients with subjective instability who have not responded to nonoperative treatment.

[Artificial ligaments applied in anterior cruciate ligament repair and reconstruction: Current products and experience]

The application of artificial ligament products in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgeries has gone through a long twisty way. In the 1970s, early artificial ligament products were initially used for ACL surgeries, which showed poor clinical efficacy and eventually ended up in failure. Over the last 20 years, there has been a growing number of ACL reconstruction with new artificial ligament products, including the Leeds-Keio TM, the LARS TM (Ligament Advanced Reinfocement System), and the Trevira Hochfest TM. Among these new products, the LARS TM has been more commonly applied for ACL surgeries. Although these new artificial ligament products have good mechanical properties and show significant improvement of cumulative failure and complication rate, they still have limitations.

Mechanical evaluation of tibial fixation of the hamstring tendon in anterior cruciate ligament double-bundle reconstruction with and without interference screws

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare two postero-lateral bundle (PLB) tibial fixation techniques for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with double bundle: a technique without the use of an interference screw, preserving the native tibial insertion of the tendons of the gracilis and semitendineous muscles, and a technique with the use of an interference screw and without preserving the insertion of the tendons.

METHODS

A comparative study was conducted in cadavers with a universal mechanical test machine. In total, 23 cadaver knees were randomized for tibial fixation of the PLB using the two techniques: Maintaining the tibial insertion of the tendons during reconstruction, without the use of an interference screw (group A, 11 cases); and fixating the graft with an interference screw, without maintaining the insertion of the tendons (group B, 12 cases). A continuous traction was performed (20 mm/min) in the same direction as the produced tunnel, and force (N), elongation (mm), rigidity (N/mm), and tension (N/mm2) were objectively determined in each group.

RESULTS

Group A exhibited a maximum force (MF) of 315.4±124.7 N; maximum tension of 13.57±3.65 N/mm2; maximum elongation of 19.73±4.76 mm; force at the limit of proportionality (FLP) of 240.6±144.0 N; and an elongation at the limit of proportionality of 14.37±6.58 mm. Group B exhibited a MF of 195.7±71.8 N; maximum tension of 8.8±3.81 N/mm2; maximum elongation of 15.3±10.73 mm; FLP of 150.1±68.7 N; and an elongation at the limit of proportionality of 6.86±2.42 mm. When comparing the two groups, significant differences were observed in the variables of maximum force (p=0.016), maximum tension (p=0.019), maximum elongation (p=0.007), and elongation at the limit of proportionality (p=0.003).

CONCLUSION

The use of the native insertion of the semitendineous and gracilis tendons, without an additional fixation device, presented mechanical superiority over their fixation with interference screws.

[Influence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction on Gait Kinematics]

INTRODUCTION The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a tried and tested method in treating knee joint instability which brings valuable results in an acceptable time frame. In the long-term follow-up, however, a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis development is described. One of the possible reasons is considered to be the abnormal kinematics of the operated knee. The purpose of our study was to determine the degree to which the ACL reconstruction helps restore the correct gait cycle compared to the healthy limb. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included patients after the ACL reconstruction performed in the period from 1 January 2016 to 31 March 2018. With the use of strict criteria, 11 patients were selected for kinematic analysis, who underwent examinations in a gait laboratory and were also evaluated using the Tegner and Lysholm rating systems and the IKDC (International Knee Documentation Committee) knee score, namely preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The kinematic assessment of gait was carried out using the Vicon MX system with the placement of reflexive markers in line with the Plug-In Gait model. RESULTS The clinical outcomes (namely the score according to Tegner, Lysholm as well as the IKDC) during the first year postoperatively showed a major improvement in knee function and the achievement of the pre-injury activity level. The kinematic analysis revealed lower knee extension at the stance phase and lower overall range of motion of the limb with the injured ACL compared to the healthy limb. The follow-up evaluation at 6 and 12 months postoperatively showed a persisting between-limbs difference in knee extension, whereas the range of motion gradually improved during the year. CONCLUSIONS Although our study confirmed that the ACL reconstruction is an efficient method to treat knee joint instability, it also indicated that even at one year after the ACL reconstruction, the kinematics of the operated knee was not fully restored to the level of the heathy knee. The persisting limb-difference in gait kinematics could contribute to the gradual development of degenerative changes in the operated knee joint. Key words: anterior cruciate ligament deficiency, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, knee kinematics during gait, knee osteoarthritis.

Optimizing Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Outcomes: What Else Needs Fixing Besides the ACL?

This review focuses on the management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction patients when other concomitant pathology may need to be addressed at the time of surgery. Given the role of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus in preventing osteoarthritis progression and contributing to knee stability, medial meniscus repair should always be considered when performing ACL reconstruction. Meniscal transplant may also be appropriate in select patients with normal knee alignment and absent of cartilage abnormalities in the compartment. Varus alignment with a varus thrust or increased posterior tibial slope will increase stress on the ACL graft and may predispose to early failure. Alignment should be assessed with appropriate radiographs and corrective osteotomy in isolation or in conjunction with ACL reconstruction should be considered for certain patients. Low-grade medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries can be treated nonsurgically prior to ACL reconstruction. These are frequently missed with either physical examination or radiographic imaging. High-grade LCL injuries are often treated with repair versus reconstruction in conjunction with ACL reconstruction depending on the timing of the injury. When chronic MCL injuries show opening in extension, MCL reconstruction may be needed in addition to the ACL reconstruction to improve outcome. The role of extra-articular reconstruction or anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction remains controversial but may have a role in protecting rotatory stability in primary ACL reconstruction for high-risk patients, and in the revision setting. Cartilage lesions noted in the setting of ACL injury should be considered. Small, asymptomatic lesions in locations unrelated to the ACL injury may not necessitate additional intervention. Large symptomatic lesions may require additional cartilage restoration procedures at the time of ACL reconstruction or in a staged fashion. In this ICL, we will address the diagnosis, management, and surgical indications of other concomitant pathology associated with ACL ruptures.

Editorial Commentary: Considering Fatigue When Assessing Athletes for Dynamic Knee Valgus: Is This the Next Big Step in Identifying Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Risk?

Excessive dynamic knee valgus during jumping is a poor movement strategy that has been well-documented as a risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament injury. Yet, there has been little progress in the translation of findings from high-tech motion capture laboratories to clinically applicable settings. One barrier to widespread use is expensive technology that requires time; therefore, field-based efficient assessment tools that can be used by several types of clinicians are desperately needed. Further, fatigue can influence dynamic knee valgus and should be considered when assessing or conditioning athletes.

Sports Medicine: Fractures, Sprains, and Other Musculoskeletal Injuries

Family physicians commonly treat athletes with simple fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries that require temporary immobilization. Certain fractures (eg, intraarticular, multiple, open, associated with dislocations or tendon injury) typically are managed by orthopedic subspecialists. During the healing process, a custom-molded or prefabricated orthopedic support, known as an orthosis, may be used to support the injured area and prevent reinjury. To reduce the risk of complications that may develop from orthosis use, timely follow-up is required. Proficiency in specific orthotic applications, such as splint application and cast making, requires continued skill maintenance. Patients with suspected scaphoid bone fractures should initially undergo splinting or bracing in a thumb spica device until fracture is definitively diagnosed or ruled out. Injuries to the extensor tendons of the finger are managed with continuous extension splinting for 4 to 6 weeks. Patients with grade I and II medial collateral ligament injuries heal well with use of a hinged knee brace for 4 to 6 weeks. There is no good evidence for use of a brace after anterior cruciate ligament repair. Lateral ankle sprains are common, and bracing is an integral component of functional rehabilitation and injury prevention. There are specific requirements related to reimbursement for orthoses prescriptions.

[IGF-1 levels in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using allograft vs autograft in patients at Central Military Hospital]

BACKGROUND

Treatment of ACL injury is surgical reconstruction. It is not known whether the result is better depending on the type of graft used. Insulin-like growth factor type 1(IGF-1) is a powerful stimulant of extracellular matrix and chondrocyte growth.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Experimental, analytical, prospective, longitudinal study in patients with ACL reconstruction in a period from 2016 to 2017. The concentration of IGF-1 in synovial fluid of these patients operated with allograft and autograft was determined, its association with postoperative evolution was determined. For statistical analysis, two-way ANOVA with Mann-Whitney post-hoc U was used.

RESULTS

A significant increase in IGF-1 was identified in the allograft group at 90 days of postopertory. In the autograft group, a significant increase in IGF-1 was observed from 30 days of postoperative. The autograft group was found to have significantly higher levels of IGF-1 (3.27 ± 0.09 ng/ml) compared to the allograft group (2.80 ± 0.11 ng/ml; p 0.001) at 90 days after graft placement.

DISCUSSION

IGF-1 levels were higher in patients with autologous graft, knee functionality was clinically similar in both groups at 30 and 90 days.

Editorial Commentary: The Measurement of Knee Laxity: Instrumented Measurement and Stress Radiography for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

The measurement of anterior knee laxity in anterior cruciate ligament injuries is an established method for both clinical practice and clinical studies in regard to anterior cruciate ligament surgery. Stress radiography was succeeded or paralleled by instrumented testing with the development of standardized devices starting in the 1980s. Because knee stability depends on the flexion angle test, conditions need to be comparable for both instrumented testing and stress radiography. The lack of a general consensus becomes even more evident for testing and measuring rotational instability. Knee laxity measurement in all dimensions, such as with robots in cadaver studies, has not found its general application in the clinical setting yet, but will be expected in the near future.

Mechanism and predisposing factors for proximal tibial epiphysiolysis in adolescents during sports activities

BACKGROUND

Proximal tibial epiphysiolysis (PTE) can have debilitating consequences for young athletes. The mechanism and predisposing factors for this lesion have yet to be determined. To find a common denominator and a biomechanical explanation for PTE, we were using a retrospective analysis of 15 cases in combination with a systematic review of literature.

METHODS

A retrospective review of medical charts was performed to identify all PTE between 2003 and 2012. Records were screened for patient age and gender, sports activity, mechanism of injury, and treatment protocols. Additionally, a literature review (MEDLINE/PubMed database, the Cochrane Library, online search engines) was conducted.

RESULTS

Medical charts of 14 adolescents (15 Salter-Harris I and II fractures) were analyzed. The literature review revealed additional 75 fractures. The predominant mechanisms were landing from a jump, takeoff for a jump, stop and go movements, and eccentric muscle contraction with the knee in flexion. The main sports-activities implicated in these injuries were basketball.

CONCLUSIONS

Landing from a jump with a decreased knee and hip flexion movement increases tensile forces on the proximal tibia epiphysis. During physiological epiphysiodesis, the growth plate displays an increased vulnerability and such increased tensile forces can lead to a growth plate failure. Neuromuscular fatigue can alter coordination and proprioceptive accuracy during landing from a vertical jump and thus perturbs sagittal shock absorption. In our opinion, trainers should instruct young athletes in techniques that help avoiding uncontrolled high impact landings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Editorial Commentary: Anterior Cruciate Ligament Costs Are Surprising

Given increasing health care costs and clinical equipoise on numerous topics, value calculations are critical. Cost-minimization analysis evaluates throughout a single episode of care. For anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, this is a reasonable approach given that cost-effectiveness data have been published. Using Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project data, general anesthesia, anesthesia time, greater age, and medical comorbidities were correlated with higher costs. Among the surprising results were increased costs with male gender and Hispanic race. Interestingly, the location of the surgery, surgery center versus hospital, or meniscal repair did not significantly impact costs. This information can be used by physicians for cost comparison and factors that determine costs.

Editorial Commentary: Mild Limb Asymmetry and Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction-A Classic "Chicken and Egg" Scenario?

Growth disturbance from a physeal injury is considered by many surgeons to be the most feared iatrogenic surgical complication after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in skeletally immature patients, typically resulting in valgus, recurvatum, and/or a short limb. These deformities also predispose children to an ACL injury in the first instance, and therefore, a firm understanding of the contributions of both preoperative deformity and iatrogenic injury to postoperative limb asymmetry is critical. Preoperative and postoperative imaging (until 2 years postoperatively or skeletal maturity) should include standing hip-to-ankle alignment radiographs when the patient is able to straighten the knee and fully bear weight, as well as a lateral projection of the knee to quantify tibial slope. This should be the standard of care for children with open physes undergoing ACL reconstruction.

Editorial Commentary: Déjà Vu: Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Revisited

Regardless of the technique utilized, tunnel expansion following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction remains a mystery and a clinical challenge. No procedure seems to be immune to this, even anatomic double-bundle reconstruction. This technique was introduced more than 20 years ago and showed great promise while also contributing significantly to our current knowledge of anterior cruciate ligament anatomy and biomechanics. However, we must remember that new techniques do carry with them new side effects that we must document and acknowledge if we hope to improve our surgical outcomes.

Abnormal tibial alignment is a risk factor for lateral meniscus posterior root tears in patients with anterior cruciate ligament ruptures

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to identify if abnormal tibial alignment was a risk factor for lateral meniscus posterior root tears (LMPRT) in patients with acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures.

METHODS

The medical charts of 200 patients treated for ACL ruptures between 2013 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and evaluated. MRI images and reports were assessed for concurrent meniscal tears. Radiographs were reviewed for tibia vara and tibial slope angles and MRI reports identifying lateral root tears were compared to intraoperative reports to determine accuracy. Multiple logistic regression models were constructed to identify potential risk factors for LMPRTs.

RESULTS

Of the 200 patients reviewed, a total of 97 individuals with concurrent meniscal injuries were identified. In patients sustaining a concurrent meniscal injury, there was a 4% incidence of medial meniscus posterior root tears and a 10.3% incidence of LMPRTs. Patients sustaining an ACL injury with an LMPRT were found to have greater tibia vara angles (4.2 ± 1.0 vs. 2.9 ± 1.7; p = 0.024), increased tibial slopes (12.6 ± 1.5 vs. 10.7 ± 2.9; p = 0.034), and higher BMIs (27.3 ± 2.9 vs. 25.3 ± 5.9; p = 0.034) when compared to patients without meniscus tears. There was low agreement between MRI and arthroscopic findings (kappa rate = 0.54). Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a tibia vara angle > 3 was associated with a 5.2-fold increase (95% CI 0.99-27.01; p = 0.050), and a tibial slope > 12 with a 5.4-fold increase (95% CI 1.03-28.19; p = 0.046) in LMPRTs.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with greater tibia varus angles, increased tibial slopes, and higher BMIs were found to have an increased risk of LMPRTs when sustaining an ACL rupture. There was a low rate of agreement between MRI and arthroscopy in identifying LMPRTs. In patients with ACL ruptures who have abnormal tibial alignment or increased BMI, physicians should be watchful for lateral meniscus posterior root tears.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Comprehensive Case-Based Review of Knee Ligament Injuries

The management of knee ligament injuries continues to evolve, and much debate persists over the timing of surgery, repair versus reconstruction, surgical technique, postoperative rehabilitation, graft selection, and fixation. Surgeons should be aware of updates on the best management strategies of knee ligament injuries in 2018 and understand the important history and physical examination findings of the knee with ligamentous injury; the anterior cruciate ligament; the role of the anterolateral ligament and lateral extra-articular tenodesis; combined anterior cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament injuries; the posterior cruciate ligament; medial collateral ligament repair versus reconstruction; posterolateral corner repair versus reconstruction; the role of coronal plane osteotomies, including high tibial osteotomy and distal femoral osteotomy; the role of sagittal plane osteotomies, including anterior closing wedge osteotomy and anterior opening wedge osteotomy; the initial management of the multiligament-injured knee; and five keys to avoiding complications in the multiligament-injured knee. The best available evidence and sample case presentations help guide surgical decision making and improve patient outcomes.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Autologous Hamstring Double Bundle Graft Compared With Single Bundle Graft Procedures

Anterior cruciate ligament injury is one of the commonest sports injuries, which often markedly reduces activity and the quality of life. The autologous hamstring double bundle graft and single bundle graft are commonly used for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The choice of graft material for ACL reconstruction is believed to play a major role in the outcome but still there are controversies about the graft selection for primary ACL reconstruction. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and functional outcome of autologous double bundle (DB) hamstring graft and single bundle (SB) hamstring graft reconstruction for the ACL injury. This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2015 to September 2017. Total 42 cases of ACL injury that required reconstruction surgery was selected as per inclusion criteria. Total patients were allocated into two groups. One group was treated by single bundle graft and other group was treated by double bundle graft for the ACL reconstruction. In this study, the mean age of double bundle and single bundle groups were 28±6.63 and 30.14±7.55 years respectively and majority of the subjects were male. The post-operative symptoms and signs were more improved in double bundle group than single bundle group during last follow-up period of 6th months. The Lachman test, Anterior drawer test and pivot sift test were more negative in double bundle group than that of single bundle groups. The Lysholm and Tegner activity were better in double bundle group than single bundle group. Again rotational and anterior stability of the knee was better in the double bundle group. However, the differences were not statistically significant and all patients in our study were able to return their activity. Double bundle group showed better rotational stability than the single bundle groups and all knees were improved by anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction compared with their pre-operative status.

[New Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstrucion Using Harmstring Tendon Grafts - Clinical Part]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The authors present the clinical use of the new instrumentation set for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using the hamstring tendons (HS). The positionning of the femoral tunnel and the fixation of the graft play an important role for the results of the surgery. The aim of the study was to confirm the proposed surgical technique and the methods of the graft fixation, especially from the point of view of the clinical midterm results at the evaluation up to eight years after the surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS The clinical evaluation comprises 58 patients operated from 2007 to 2014 using the new instrumentation set. There were 9 men and 49 women included in the sample. The mean age was 34.6 years (range 18 - 58 yrs), namely 36.7 in women and 32.4 years in men. The evaluation was performed pre-opeatively and at 3 and 6 months, 1, 3, 5 and 8 years post-operatively. All the patients were followed based on the same criteria - clinical range of motion (ROM), stability of the knee - instrumentation Lachman test utilizing Rolimeter, subjective IKDC score and pain VAS scale for the harvesting site. The ocurrence and the rate of post-operative complications were monitored. RESULTS The integration and the ingrowth of the graft were achieved in all cases, the full ROM was gained as well, no pathological instability was observed. The fixation of the HS graft in the bone was confirmed by post-op X ray at 3 months after the surgery. The clinical evaluation showed the following mean differences in the pre-op and final post-op findings. The average preoperative laxity using the Lachmann test was 9.7 mm (range 6-12 mm), at 3 months 1.8 mm (1.4-2.1 mm), at 6 months 1.6 mm (1.2 - 2.2 mm), at 1 year 1.6 mm (1.1-2.3 mm), at 3 years the stability was 1.7 mm (1.2 mm-2.4 mm), at 5 years 2.3 mm (1.2-3.6 mm) and at 8 years after surgery it was 2.5 mm (1.2-3.9 mm). None of the patitents included in the study showed pathological instability that would be considered an indication for revision. In the evaluation of the subjective IKDC score, the pre-operative average was 56, with the range of 42-66, at 3 months post-operatively 79 (69-85), at 6 months 88 (74-92), at 1 year 95 (88-100), at 3 years 96 (89-100), at 5 years 94 (87-100), and at 8 years 92 (84-98). No severe complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS The method provided sufficient post-operative stability of the knee joint. Fixation of the femoral screw satisfied the demands laid on it. Regarding the pain perception, the method was considered positive, the level of pain involved in the procedure was low. No severe complications or technical mistakes occurred during the surgical procedures. The new instrumentation set developed for the ACL reconstruction offers an easy technique and comfortof use. Key words:anterior cruciate ligament, reconstruction, hamstrings, knee arthroscopy, instrumentation set.

Editorial Commentary: National Football League Hopefuls Beware: Your Stock May Be Falling After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Making a National Football League (NFL) team is tough; making one after undergoing an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is tougher. NFL Combine participants who are post-ACL reconstruction, particularly with certain graft types such as allografts and to a lesser extent hamstring grafts, are frequently 'down-graded' despite the presence of a stable, well-placed graft without any associated meniscal or chondral damage. Whether NFL general managers are truly prescient in accurately predicting decreased performance by choosing a player later in the draft, or whether NFL coaching staffs knowingly or unknowingly restrict an athlete's playing time based on draft position or surgical history is unknown. Yet, any collegiate football player who is good enough to make it to the Combine possesses a rare combination of athleticism, strength, determination, and toughness. An ACL tear used to mark the beginning of the end of an athlete's playing career, but today's athletes are able to return at an elite level following ACL injury and surgery. Unfortunately, despite a successful surgery, prospective NFL players who undergo ACL reconstruction may still be at a disadvantage compared to their uninjured counterparts in terms of their ability to be drafted and play in the first two years of their careers.

Minimizing Injury and Maximizing Return to Play: Lessons from Engineered Ligaments

Musculoskeletal injuries account for more than 70% of time away from sports. One of the reasons for the high number of injuries and long return to play is that we have only a very basic understanding of how our training alters tendon and ligament (sinew) structure and function. Sinews are highly dense tissues that are difficult to characterize both in vivo and in vitro. Recently, engineered ligaments have been developed in vitro using cells from human anterior cruciate ligaments or hamstring tendons. These three-dimensional tissues can be grown in a laboratory, treated with agents thought to affect sinew physiology, and then mechanically tested to determine their function. Using these tissues, we have learned that sinews, like bone, quickly become refractory to an exercise stimulus, suggesting that short (<10 min) periods of activity with relatively long (6 h) periods of rest are best to train these tissues. The engineered sinews have also shown how estrogen decreases sinew function and that a factor released following intense exercise increases sinew collagen synthesis and function. Last, engineered sinews are being used to screen possible nutritional interventions that may benefit tendon or ligament function. Using the data derived from these tissue-engineered sinews, new nutritional and training regimes are being designed and tested with the goal of minimizing injury and accelerating return to play.

[Postoperative functional angular anatomy in patients with anterior cruciate ligament with autologous graft]

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) aims to restore the original anatomy. The clinical outcome could be imperfect when graft placement is not in an anatomical position; moreover, the conventional transtibial reconstruction of the ACL often locates the graft away from the anatomical site, leading to abnormal biomechanical behavior and kinematics of the knee. The objective of this work was to assess the importance of the angular reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament during arthroscopic replacement and to compare the postoperative functional results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We studied 21 patients to whom the IKDC 2000 form of objective and subjective evaluation was applied; radiographic evaluation in anteroposterior and lateral bending at 30o. We made an statistical analysis with Pearson P, correlating the anteroposterior and lateral angulation of the graft direction and the subjective projection of the operated knee function, as well as age and time of evolution with the operated knee.

RESULTS

We included 21 patients of 18 to 56 years of age; follow-up: one to three years. Objective evaluation: 95.24% normal and 4.76% almost normal. Subjective assessment: average 84.31% (range 70.93 to 97.99%), CI 95%. AP angle: 68.8o, range: 62o to 77o. Average sagittal angle: 64.9o, range: 58o to 75o. Correlations: AP angle and subjective function -0.19, angle in sagittal and subjective function -0.54, age and subjective function -0.77, duration and subjective function -0.74. Function average: 84.31%.

DISCUSSION

The anatomical angular reconstruction of the ACL graft is key to the stability of the knee; the evaluated patients got a more similar direction to that of the native ACL, better stability and knee function.

Editorial Commentary: A Revisit of an Old Clinical Dilemma-To Operate or Not to Operate on Acute Knee Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

There is a feeling among knee surgeons that operating on an acute anterior cruciate ligament injury will increase the incidence of arthrofibrosis. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 recent articles compared early versus delayed anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The conclusions were that the clinical and stability results were comparable in both groups.

Editorial Commentary: Animal Trials Using Stem Cells to Enhance Anterior Cruciate Ligament Treatment Are Interesting. But, Why Not More About Us Humans?

Although hampered by heterogeneous studies with low methodologic quality and high risk for bias, the current literature demonstrates the potential for enhanced healing of anterior cruciate ligament injuries during the early phase using adult stem cells in animal trials. There are only 2 published controlled clinical trials on the subject matter, and they have small sample sizes, undefined cell numbers, and unstandardized selection criteria and surgical techniques. There is a clear need for studies with higher levels of evidence that would include long-term, larger animal studies ultimately leading to improved clinical trials.

Comparative Study of Patellar Tendon Graft versus Hamstrings Graft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Graft selection for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is very important part of knee stability. The purpose of this Qasi experimental study was to compare the clinical outcomes after ACL reconstruction using either a BPTB graft or a four-strand hamstrings graft and conducted from January 2012 to December 2013. Patients presented with a symptomatic unilateral ACL rupture who were underwent ACL reconstruction by using either BPTB or Hamstrings graft, IPD of Department of Orthopedics at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka as well as in a private hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh were selected as study population. Patients were divided into Group A who were treated with the patellar tendon bone graft and Group B patients who were received hamstrings tendon graft. All surgery was performed by the same surgeon and the both procedures were arthroscopically assisted. Operation was performed at least three (03) weeks after initial trauma. All patients were assessed by independent examiner before surgery, at 6 months, 12 months and then annually by clinically. A total number of 70 patients were recruited for this study. The mean age with SD of Group A and Group B were 27.31±10.91 and 26.97±10.10 years respectively (p=0.892). Tegner scores were measured preoperatively and post-operatively. The score were 2.2±1.1 and 2.1±1.0 in preoperatively (p=0.817). In post-operatively the mean score were 6.0±1.7 and 5.8±1.5 in Group A and Group B respectively (p=0.508). Regarding outcome of the operation excellent was 18(51%) cases in both Group A and Group B, good was 15 (43%) and 16(46%) cases in Group A and Group B respectively (p=0.793). In conclusion there was no significant difference between the two groups of the ACL reconstructions cases.