The effect of cortical button location on its post-operative migration in anatomical double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Arthroscopic Confirmation of Femoral Button Deployment During Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) ruptures are uncommonly seen in knee ligament injuries. Cconservative treatment is often suitable for isolated tears with mild-to-moderate posterior knee laxity (grades I or II). However, surgical intervention is indicated for symptomatic grade III or multiligament knee injuries. PCL reconstruction has experienced continuous development due to the progress made in arthroscopic techniques and instruments. Abnormal positioning and tensioning of the femoral button result in multiple complications such as residual laxity, loss of quadriceps muscle strength, and joint stiffness. In this Technical Note, we describe direct arthroscopic visualization of the femoral button deployment in PCL reconstruction technique, and we discuss its importance to prevent complications related to button malposition.

Deep Infection After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Diagnosed by Intratunnel Suspensory Fixation Device Migration: A Case Report

CASE

A 43-year-old woman sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury while kickboxing and underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring autograft with suspensory fixation. Lateral thigh wound was superficially infected at 2 weeks postoperatively with resolution of signs and symptoms after debridement. Three months later, posterolateral knee pain developed and radiographs revealed intratunnel migration of the device. That observation with abnormal magnetic resonance imaging and serology results led to the diagnosis of deep infection. Immediate device removal and debridement were performed. Consequently, the grafts were preserved, and the patient could perform kickboxing 2 years thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS

Intratunnel migration of suspensory fixation devices can support a diagnosis of infection.

Effect of Soft Tissue Interposition and Postoperative Suspensory Cortical Button Migration on Functional Outcomes and Ligamentization After Single-Bundle ACL Reconstruction

Background:

Soft tissue interposition between a suspensory cortical button and the lateral femoral condyle is the most common cause of postoperative suspensory cortical button migration in patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

To investigate the effects of soft tissue interposition and suspensory cortical button migration after ACLR on functional outcomes and graft ligamentization.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were 249 patients who underwent single-bundle ACLR with hamstring tendon autografts. To measure soft tissue imposition, the patients were divided into 2 groups: those in whom the suspensory cortical button was in contact with (group 1) or at least 1 mm away from (group 2) the lateral femoral condyle on 1-day postoperative radiographs. To measure suspensory cortical button migration, the patients in group 2 were further divided into 2 subgroups: those with button migration (group M) and those without migration (group non-M) as observed on 12-month postoperative radiographs. Ligamentization was evaluated according to Howell classification (grades 1-4) on 12-month follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scans. Also recorded were preoperative and 24-month postoperative Lysholm and Tegner scores and 24-month postoperative arthrometer measurements for anterior knee laxity.

Results:

There was no significant difference between groups 1 and 2 or between groups M and non-M in terms of demographic characteristics or additional intra-articular pathologies detected intraoperatively. Normal anterior laxity (<3 mm) was detected in 83.7% of the patients postoperatively, and all patients showed statistically significant pre- to postoperative improvement on the Tegner (from 4.1 to 4.3) and Lysholm (from 44.0 to 89.2) scores (P < .05 for both). No significant difference in postoperative functional results or graft ligamentization was found between either the soft tissue interposition groups (groups 1 and 2) or the suspensory cortical button migration groups (groups M and non-M).

Conclusion:

Differences between patients in soft tissue interposition and suspensory cortical button migration did not significantly affect postoperative clinical or functional outcomes or graft ligamentization after single-bundle ACLR.

Risk Factors for Femoral Cortical Button Malposition in Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background

Femoral cortical button suspension fixation is a popular and reliable technique for posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (PCLR). Button malposition during graft fixation can lead to postoperative graft loosening.

Purpose

To determine the risk factors of femoral cortical button malposition in PCLR when neither direct visualization nor intraoperative fluoroscopy is used.

Study Design

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Of the 206 consecutive patients who underwent PCLR without direct visualization or intraoperative radiographs in 2019 at a single institution, 182 met the selection criteria and were included in the study. The distance from the suspension button to the femoral cortex was measured on postoperative computed tomography scans. The button was considered malpositioned if its distance to the femoral cortex was ≥2 mm. We evaluated patient-related and surgery-related variables, including age, sex, concomitant ligament reconstruction, button type, and surgeon experience. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to evaluate the risk factors for button malposition.

Results

The overall prevalence of button malposition was approximately 17.0% (31/182), and the mean distance from the button to the femoral cortex was 6.11 ± 5.82 mm in the malposition group. Male sex was the most significant risk factor for button malposition (odds ratio [OR], 13.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.73-111.17; P = .013). Other independent risk factors were low surgical volume (completing ≤3 procedures; OR, 6.41; 95% CI, 1.89-21.72; P = .003), concomitant ligament reconstruction (OR, 5.56; 95% CI, 2.12-14.58; P < .001), and fixed-loop button (OR, 3.96; 95% CI, 1.11-14.18; P = .034).

Conclusion

Male sex, low surgical volume, concomitant ligament reconstruction, and fixed-loop button were independent risk factors for femoral cortical button malposition during PCLR.

Arthroscopic confirmation of femoral button deployment prevents soft tissue interposition in ACL reconstruction

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether direct arthroscopic control of femoral buttons can prevent improper deployment and soft tissue interposition in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from the SANTI study group database was performed. All patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using suspensive femoral fixation between 01/01/2017 and 31/12/2019 were included. Patient assessment included demographics, sports metrics, reoperations performed and femoral button-related specific complications such as iliotibial band (ITB) irritation and/or septic arthritis. Proper deployment of the button and soft tissue interposition were assessed on postoperative radiographs.

RESULTS

A total of 307 patients underwent ACL reconstruction using adjustable femoral button fixation and were analyzed after a mean follow-up of 35.2 ± 11.0 months (14.3-50.2). The mean age was 39.5 ± 10.9-years old (range 13.3-70.6). Postoperative radiographs showed a correctly deployed femoral button without soft tissue interposition for all patients. No septic arthritis was reported. Nine patients (2.9%) suffered from lateral pain related to ITB irritation due to the button. Five of them had their symptoms resolve during rehabilitation. Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid infiltration was necessary for four patients after an average delay of 14.5 ± 4.8 months (11.7-21.7). Three patients were then symptom-free, but one required surgical removal of the implant 27.5 months after the surgery. Regarding unrelated femoral button complications, 15 patients (4.9%) underwent secondary arthroscopic procedures, including meniscectomy (1.6%), surgery for cyclops syndrome (2.6%) and revision ACLR (0.7%).

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic confirmation of femoral button deployment prevents soft tissue interposition without specific complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Complications following Suture Button Use for Femoral Graft Fixation in Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Understanding any potential complications that may occur in relation to the use of a suture button for femoral graft fixation in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction can help raise awareness among surgeons and improve safety when using such implants. This is a systematic review of suture button related complications. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) databases from their year of inception until January 3, 2019. We included studies reporting on suture button related complications in their outcomes of femoral graft suture button fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Our search identified 479 articles, of which 19 met our inclusion criteria. Suture button misplacement (initial or subsequent migration) was the most commonly reported complication. Although, in most cases, button misplacement is minimal and does not adversely affect clinical outcomes, in some cases it may lead to graft failure or local soft tissue irritation and require further surgery. Intraoperative screening or arthroscopic evaluation of the deployed suture button may reduce this complication.

Arthroscopic confirmation of femoral button deployment avoids post-operative X-ray in ACL reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with cortical fixation adjustable-loop devices are associated with high potential risk of button malpositioning or interposition of the soft tissue between lateral femoral cortex and the button. Surgeons usually use X-rays to check and avoid button malposition and soft tissue interposition. Arthroscopic visualization of button position through the lateral gutter has been described. With this technique, it is possible for identification and correction of femoral button malalignment in the setting of soft tissue interposition and it could avoid the use of post-operative X-ray.

METHODS

A total of 193 ACLR were included and patients were randomized into two groups. The first series (Group A) of 112 patients who sustained an ACLR with post-operative X-ray to assess the position of the femoral button and the second series (Group B) of 81 patients who sustained an ACLR with an arthroscopic exploration of the button followed by post-operative X-ray.

RESULTS

On the post-operative radiographs, tissue interposition between the button and femoral cortex was found in nine cases of 112 in Group A (8%) and in zero case of 81 in Group B (0%). In six cases (7,4%) in Group B, there was a soft tissue interposition between the button and femoral cortex as visualized by arthroscopic confirmation and before post-operative X-ray; in all these cases, the soft tissue was removed, and the button was in contact with the bone in all X-ray made in the Group B.

CONCLUSIONS

This technique allows for identification and correction of femoral button malalignment in the setting of soft tissue interposition and reduces the use of post-operative X-ray.

The effect of soft tissue interposition of the Endobutton on clinical results and on its postoperative migration after single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the possible consequences of soft tissue interposition of Endobutton on clinical outcomes and reoperation rates after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

We measured the distance between the centre of the Endobutton and the lateral femoral cortex on the postoperative first day anteroposterior X-rays of the 156 knees that underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Those with a distance less than 1 mm were regarded as Group 1 (118 patients), the ones between 1 mm and 2 mm were regarded as Group 2 (30 patients) and the ones more than 2 mm were regarded as Group 3 (8 patients). The movement of the Endobutton of more than 1 mm along the femoral tunnel axis on anteroposterior X-rays or its rotation by more than 5° on lateral X-rays during follow-up were considered migration. Clinical assessment scores (Lysholm, Tegner Activity Scale), clinical examination tests, and rates of Endobutton migration in the groups were analysed.

RESULTS

Eleven Endobuttons (9.3%) in Group 1, 26 Endobuttons (86.7%) in Group 2 and all of the 8 Endobuttons (100%) in Group 3 were observed to have migrated. Clinical results and examination tests showed no significant difference between Groups 1 and 2, whereas a significant difference was detected in Group 3 compared to Groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Soft tissue interposition is a major cause of Endobutton migration, and an interposition over 2 mm between the Endobutton and the lateral femoral cortex can negatively affect the outcomes after an anterior cruciate ligament surgery.

Confirmation of Femoral Button Deployment Under Direct Visualization During ACL Reconstruction Is Not Beneficial

The purpose of this study was to determine whether direct visualization of adjustable-loop cortical suspensory button deployment onto the lateral femur increases the cortical contact rate of the button, thereby improving clinical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Sixty-five single-bundle anteromedial portal ACL reconstructions using an adjustable-loop button were retrospectively divided into 2 groups according to use of the blind pulling technique (control group; 32 patients) or the direct visualization technique (visualization group; 33 patients) when confirming deployment of the button. Cortical contact rate of the button on immediate and 2-year postoperative radiographs, knee stability measured using a KT-1000 arthrometer, and functional scores (Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee score) at 2 years postoperative were compared between the groups. There was no significant difference in femoral cortical contact rate between the groups immediately (56% control group vs 55% visualization group; P=1.000) and at 2 years postoperative (78% control group vs 82% visualization group; P=.764). At 2 years postoperative, there was no difference between the groups regarding knee stability (1.3±0.9 mm vs 1.5±0.8 mm, respectively; P=.404), Lysholm score (P=.436), and International Knee Documentation Committee score (P=.507). Confirmation of adjustable-loop button deployment under direct visualization during anteromedial portal ACL reconstruction neither increased cortical contact rate nor improved clinical outcomes. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(5);270-276.].

The interposition of soft tissue between the cortical button and femoral lateral cortex significantly increases button migration but does not negatively affect knee stability and clinical outcome

BACKGROUND

In clinical practice, soft tissue interposition may occur during femoral graft fixation. Soft tissue interposition between the lateral femoral cortex and the cortical button may affect graft tension and related longitudinal graft motion in the tunnel. We aimed to investigate the effect of soft tissue interposition on button migration and clinical outcomes in anatomical single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

Eighty-four patients aged 18-40 years, who underwent anatomical single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with quadruple hamstring autograft were included. Patients were divided into two groups as Group 1 (n = 32) with soft tissue interposition between the cortical button and cortex, and Group 2 (n = 52) without soft tissue interposition. At the one-year follow-up visit, the anteroposterior knee stability of the patients was evaluated using the Lachman test and KT-2000 arthrometer, and rotational stability was assessed with the pivot shift test. The Lysholm knee score was used to evaluate the functional outcome of the patients. Relationship between tissue interposition and clinical outcome, and button migration was examined.

RESULTS

Button migration was observed in 12 patients in Group 1 (37.5%) and two patients (3.84%) in Group 2 (p < 0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between patients with and without tissue interposition or those with and without button migration regarding knee stability parameters and clinical outcome (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative tissue interposition is found to be associated with cortical button migration during the follow-up. However, it does not affect the clinical outcome.

Direct Visualization of the Femoral Cortical Button in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Helps Ensure Proper Positioning

This study sought to postoperatively compare femoral cortical button (FCB) placement in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction performed using an adjustable loop cortical femoral fixation button under direct arthroscopic visualization vs indirect methods. The authors conducted a retrospective review of postoperative knee radiographs from 76 patients who had undergone ACL reconstruction with an adjustable loop cortical femoral fixation button. Operative reports were reviewed to determine the technique used for graft placement. Two sports fellowship-trained surgeons reviewed the collected radiographs, and the position of the FCB in each patient was subsequently graded. Of the 76 patients reviewed, 42 cases were performed using direct visualization, whereas 34 cases used indirect methods. This analysis showed that FCBs placed with direct visualization were more likely to have optimal position directly on the femoral cortex compared with indirect methods (chi-square test, P=.046). The grading scores demonstrated moderate strength of interobserver reliability (kappa coefficient=0.62). Direct arthroscopic visualization while placing an FCB during ACL reconstruction with an adjustable loop cortical fixation button can help ensure optimal button placement. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(3):191-195.].

Late Migration of an Adjustable-Loop Cortical Suspension Device in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

A unique case of late migration of an adjustable-loop femoral fixation button utilized during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is presented. Imaging and physical examinations during the patient's postoperative course were unremarkable for graft or hardware failure. Two years postoperatively, symptomatic hardware migration occurred requiring arthroscopic removal. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of late migration of an adjustable-loop femoral fixation button in ACL reconstruction. This case highlights that late loosening and migration of adjustable-loop femoral fixation devices in ACL reconstruction can occur despite demonstrated postoperative radiographic and clinical stability. Surgeons utilizing this fixation device should be aware of this potential complication to avoid delayed recognition and patient morbidity.

Alternate Method of Arthroscopically Confirming Femoral Button Deployment for Knee Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft Suspensory Cortical Fixation

Accurate deployment of the femoral button on the lateral aspect of the lateral femoral condyle when using a suspensory fixation device for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is ideal. Direct visualization would be the most appropriate method of visualization in the lateral gutter. A previously described technique is performed with the knee in flexion. In this position, maneuverability of the arthroscope in the lateral gutter may be difficult in small knees because of tight lateral structures. We describe a simple technique in which visualization is performed with the knee in extension, which is especially useful in small knees.

Arthroscopic Technique to Reduce Suture Button Migration During Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Procedure

Suture button-based femoral cortical suspension constructs of anterior cruciate ligament grafts can facilitate a fast and secure fixation. However, there are several case reports showing button malpositioning resulting from the inability to visualize the "flipped" button. Many current surgical techniques do not allow direct visualization of EndoButtons (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA) in their final position, making it difficult to ensure that both buttons are fully flipped and that there is no soft-tissue interposition between the button and femur. We describe an arthroscopic technique for making femoral tunnels through the outside-in method that reduces the migration of the EndoButton through a lateral femoral portal. This technique may assist surgeons in understanding how to deal with and potentially avoid EndoButton migration during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: MR imaging findings

More than two million people tear their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) each year, and ACL reconstruction occupies a significant proportion of everyday orthopedic practice, being one of the most commonly performed sports medicine surgical procedures. Patients with postoperative symptoms are frequently imaged to monitor ligament grafts and to identify complications. Given the number of patients undergoing ACL reconstruction, knowledge of the potential complications of this surgery is essential for radiologists. This article provides a review of imaging of ACL reconstruction procedures and the potential complications specific to this surgery.

Early Postoperative Intratunnel Migration of an EndoButton After Anatomic Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Case Report

CASE

We report a rare case of early postoperative migration of an EndoButton following anatomic double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with use of the EndoButton for femoral fixation. Although secure fixation of the EndoButton was confirmed during the operation, one-week postoperative radiographs revealed an intratunnel displacement of the posterolateral EndoButton. We performed a reoperation and refixed the EndoButton to the surface of the femoral cortex; we also hooked and tied both ends of the sutures to make a knot in order to prevent remigration.

CONCLUSION

Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware that EndoButton displacement and migration could arise at an early postoperative stage.

Arthroscopically confirmed femoral button deployment

The anterior cruciate ligament TightRope RT (Arthrex, Naples, FL) is a graft suspension device for cruciate ligament reconstruction. It is an adjustable-length graft loop cortical fixation device designed to eliminate the requirement for loop length calculation and to facilitate complete graft fill of short femoral sockets that are common with anatomic anterior cruciate ligament placement. The adjustable loop length means "one size fits all," thus removing the need for multiple implant sizes and allowing graft tensioning even after fixation. However, the device has been associated with the same complications that have been described with EndoButton (Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, Andover, MA) fixation. The button of the TightRope RT may remain in the femoral tunnel rather than flipping outside of the tunnel to rest on the lateral femoral cortex, or it may become jammed inside the femoral canal. Conversely, the button may be pulled too far off the femoral cortex into the overlying soft tissue and flip in the substance of the vastus lateralis. We describe a new and simple arthroscopic technique to directly visualize the deployment and seating of the TightRope button on the lateral cortex of the femur to avoid all the aforementioned complications.