Simultaneous reconstruction of ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and medial patellofemoral ligament with ipsilateral quadriceps grafts

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes After Combined ACL and MPFL Reconstruction Versus Isolated ACL Reconstruction for ACL Injury With Patellar Instability

BACKGROUND

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury accompanied by patellar instability (PI) is a topic that has gained orthopaedic surgeons' attention recently. Untreated PI is reportedly associated with worse clinical outcomes after isolated ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in patients after an ACL injury with PI. Nevertheless, the appropriate surgical approach and its long-term therapeutic effects in these patients remain unclear.

PURPOSE

(1) To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between isolated ACLR (iACLR) and combined ACLR and medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (cAMR) in patients after an ACL injury with PI and (2) to explore the correlations between these 2 procedures and clinical and radiological outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A total of 106 patients diagnosed with an ACL injury accompanied by PI between January 2016 and April 2021 were analyzed in this study. There were 34 patients excluded because of missing postoperative radiological data. Among the remaining 72 patients, 34 patients underwent iACLR, while 38 patients underwent cAMR. Demographic characteristics, intraoperative findings, and patient-reported outcomes (Lysholm score, subjective International Knee Documentation Committee score, and Tegner activity score) were prospectively collected. Patellar alignment parameters and worsening patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA) features (evaluated with the modified Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score) were analyzed longitudinally on magnetic resonance imaging. The Kujala score was used to evaluate the functional recovery of the patellofemoral joint, and redislocations of the patella were prospectively recorded. Finally, multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the correlations between these 2 procedures and clinical (not achieving the minimal detectable change [MDC] for the Lysholm score) and radiological (worsening PFOA features) outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up duration was 28.9 ± 6.2 and 27.1 ± 6.8 months for the iACLR and cAMR groups, respectively (P = .231). Significantly higher Lysholm scores (88.3 ± 9.9 vs 82.1 ± 11.1, respectively; P = .016) and subjective International Knee Documentation Committee scores (83.6 ± 11.9 vs 78.3 ± 10.2, respectively; P = .046) were detected in the cAMR group compared with the iACLR group postoperatively. The rates of return to preinjury sports were 20.6% and 44.7% in the iACLR and cAMR groups, respectively (difference, 24.1% [95% CI, 3.3%-45.0%]; P = .030). Moreover, the rates of worsening PFOA features were 44.1% and 18.4% in the iACLR and cAMR groups, respectively (difference, 25.7% [95% CI, 4.9%-46.4%]; P = .018). In addition, significantly higher Kujala scores (87.9 ± 11.3 vs 80.1 ± 12.0, respectively; P = .006), lower redislocation rates (0.0% vs 11.8%, respectively; difference, 11.8% [95% CI, 0.9%-22.6%]; P = .045), and significantly better patellar alignment were detected in the cAMR group compared with the iACLR group postoperatively. Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis determined that iACLR and partial lateral meniscectomy were significantly correlated with not achieving the MDC for the Lysholm score and worsening PFOA features in our study population.

CONCLUSION

In patients after an ACL injury with PI, cAMR yielded better clinical and radiological outcomes compared with iACLR, with better patellar stability and a lower proportion of worsening PFOA features. Furthermore, not achieving the MDC for the Lysholm score and worsening PFOA features were significantly correlated with iACLR and partial lateral meniscectomy. Our study suggests that cAMR may be a more appropriate procedure for patients after an ACL injury with PI, which warrants further high-level clinical evidence.

Characterization of the CT-based risk factors for concomitant patellofemoral instability in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury

OBJECTIVES

Underestimation of concomitant patellofemoral instability in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has aroused extensive attention. However, the characteristics of the combined injury is not well recognized. Hence, we aimed to characterize the features of the combined injury, and determine the radiographic risk factors.

METHODS

Fifteen radiological parameters were identified after discussion and pilot-tested. Radiographic measurements were compared using the analysis of variance model with Tukey post hoc analysis. A stepwise binomial logistic regression was performed and a nomogram model combining the significant risk factors was created. The model performance was validated by C-index, calibration plot, and decision curve.

RESULTS

A total of 204 patients (mean [SD] age, 25.1 [6.7] years; 108 [52.9%] male) were included. The final model was updated through regression analysis using 4 parameters as significant risk factors: lateral femoral condyle ratio (OR (95% CI), 1.194 (1.023 to 1.409)), medial anterior tibial subluxation (mATS) (OR (95% CI), 1.234 (1.065 to 1.446)), medial posterior plateau tibial angle (mPPTA) (OR (95% CI), 1.266 (1.088 to 1.500)), and trochlear depth (OR (95% CI), 0.569 (0.397 to 0.784)). C-index for the nomogram was 0.802 (95% CI, 0.731 to 0.873) and was confirmed to be 0.784 through bootstrapping validation. Calibration plot established a good agreement between prediction and observation. Decision curve analysis showed that if threshold probability was over 10%, using the nomogram adds more benefit than either all or none scheme.

CONCLUSIONS

Lateral femoral condyle ratio, mATS, mPPTA, and trochlear depth are strong adverse predictors of patellofemoral instability in patients with ACL injury.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study characterizes the radiological features of the combined injury. Patellofemoral instability should be noted when treating ACL injuries.

KEY POINTS

• The radiological characteristics of the combined ACL injury and patellofemoral instability is not well recognized. • Lateral femoral condyle ratio, mATS, mPPTA, and trochlear depth are predominant risk factors for patellofemoral instability in patients with ACL injury. • Patellofemoral instability should be noted when treating ACL injuries.

Comparison of Functional Outcomes of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction Using a Peroneus Longus Graft as an Alternative to the Hamstring Tendon Graft

Background Ever since the arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has begun, the use of the peroneus longus (PL) graft for primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) has never been thought of. There is very little literature on it. Hence, our study aims to compare the functional outcomes, knee stability, donor site morbidity, and assessment of thigh muscle wasting in patients with ACL injury managed by arthroscopic single bundle reconstruction with peroneus longus tendon (PLT) and hamstring tendons (HT), respectively. Methods All adults aged 16-50 years of either gender presenting with symptoms of symptomatic ACL deficiency were admitted for arthroscopic single-bundle ACLR and allocated into two groups (peroneus longus and hamstring tendon). Functional scores (International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm score), clinical knee evaluation (anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot shift test), donor site morbidity (American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot score (AOFAS)), and thigh circumference were recorded preoperatively and at six months and one year postoperatively. The same post-op rehabilitation protocol was followed in both groups. Results One hundred and ninety-four patients (hamstring n = 96, peroneus n = 98) met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences between the preoperative, six-month postoperative, and one-year postoperative scores between the hamstring and peroneus longus groups in the IKDC (p=0.356) and Lysholm knee score (p=0.289). The mean for the AOFAS was 99.05 ± 3.56 and 99.80 ± 0.70 in the PLT and HT groups, respectively, showing no statistical difference, with a significant improvement in thigh muscle wasting among the PLT group at final follow-up (p < 0.001). Conclusion We observed similar knee stability and functional outcomes and no obvious donor site morbidity among both groups. These patients also had better responses to physiotherapy in recovering from their thigh muscle wasting. So, we can recommend that a PL graft can be a safe, viable, and effective option for usual arthroscopic single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

Quadriceps Tendon Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review of Postoperative Rehabilitation and Complication Profiles

PURPOSE

The purposes of this study are to explore current elements for postoperative rehabilitation protocol after quadriceps tendon-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (QT-ACLR), outline general timelines for progression of those elements, and explore their associated complication rates and profiles.

METHODS

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, 5 online databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PubMed) were searched and screened in duplicate using predetermined criteria for studies on the aforementioned patient population. Descriptive statistics are presented.

RESULTS

A total of 56 studies were included, with 31 studies using quadriceps tendon with bone block (B-QT) and 26 studies using all-soft tissue quadriceps tendon (S-QT). The majority of studies permitted full weightbearing and range of motion (ROM) within the first 12 postoperative weeks, and motion-controlled braces within 6 weeks. Isometric exercises were initiated within 1 week after surgery, closed-chain exercises within 12 weeks, and open-chain and sports-specific exercises within 36 weeks. Complication profiles were similar between graft types and included graft failure (1.2%-1.6%), cyclops syndrome (0.4%-0.7%), and persistent stiffness (0.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Current postoperative rehabilitation strategies in ACLR with QT offer a complication profile comparable to those reported with other graft types. Based on the included rehabilitation regimen, these protocols should focus on early ROM, specifically on achieving full extension, alongside isometric quadriceps strengthening. Progression to closed- and open-chain exercises should follow in a progressive manner, similar to existing protocols in ACLR. Adjuncts such as motion-controlled bracing and continuous passive motion machines may be used if graft protection is prioritized. This review highlights the need for comparison of defined protocols against one another in the setting of QT-ACLR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies.

All-Inside Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using an Anterior Half of the Peroneus Longus Tendon Autograft

Background:

The peroneus longus tendon (PLT) has been used as a graft in many orthopaedic surgical procedures because of its comparable biomechanical strength with the native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Despite its potential, few studies have been performed to investigate the clinical reliability of ACL reconstruction using a PLT autograft.

Purpose:

To assess the clinical outcomes and donor-site morbidity of ACL reconstruction using an anterior half of the PLT (AHPLT) autograft in patients with an isolated ACL injury.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between January 2016 and January 2017, a total of 21 patients with an isolated ACL injury underwent all-inside single-bundle ACL reconstruction using an AHPLT autograft. Knee stability was assessed using the Lachman test, pivot-shift test, and KT-2000 arthrometer (side-to-side difference) with 134-N anterior force and at 30° of knee flexion. Knee function was evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee score, Lysholm score, and Tegner score. Donor-site morbidity was assessed using ankle eversion and plantarflexion strength as well as the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scoring system and the Foot and Ankle Disability Index.

Results:

At a mean final follow-up of 40.1 months (range, 36-48 months), the KT-2000 arthrometer side-to-side difference was significantly lower compared with preoperatively (1.1 ± 0.62 vs 7.0 ± 2.18 mm, respectively; P < .001). The mean preoperative International Knee Documentation Committee, Lysholm, and Tegner scores were 52.0 ± 8.27, 50.9 ± 8.50, and 1.8 ± 0.87, respectively, increasing significantly to 94.2 ± 2.61, 95.2 ± 2.64, and 6.8 ± 1.50, respectively, at final follow-up (P < .001 for all). All patients had grade 5 muscle strength in ankle eversion and plantarflexion at the donor site, with mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society and Foot and Ankle Disability Index scores of 96.8 and 97.6, respectively. No complications or reoperations occurred.

Conclusion:

All-inside ACL reconstruction using an AHPLT autograft produced good functional scores and stability without obvious ankle-site morbidity.

Concurrent Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Case Report and Literature Review

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insufficiency in combination with patellar instability are rare occurrences and are difficult to treat. Failure to address patellar instability in such cases may place excessive strain on ACL graft leading to graft rupture. We present three such cases treated by concurrent ACL and medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with hamstring tendon autografts. Two patients had MRI evidence of MPFL injury and one patient had intact MPFL on MRI. All patients had good outcome without any residual instability at final follow-up. 

Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

Critically evaluate the published literature related to quadriceps tendon (QT) medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hamstring tendon (HT) MPFL reconstruction techniques have been shown to successfully restore patella stability, but complications including patella fracture are reported. Quadriceps tendon (QT) reconstruction techniques with an intact graft pedicle on the patella side have the advantage that patella bone tunnel drilling and fixation are no longer needed, reducing risk of patella fracture. Several QT MPFL reconstruction techniques, including minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches, have been published with promising clinical results and fewer complications than with HT techniques. Parallel laboratory studies have shown macroscopic anatomy and biomechanical properties of QT are more similar to native MPFL than hamstring (HS) HT, suggesting QT may more accurately restore native joint kinematics. Quadriceps tendon MPFL reconstruction, via both open and MIS techniques, have promising clinical results and offer valuable alternatives to HS grafts for primary and revision MPFL reconstruction in both children and adults.

Partial quadriceps tendon transfer for revision medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: A new surgical technique

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction for patellofemoral instability is a common procedure. Although MPFL reconstruction is a successful procedure in terms of return to normal life or sports, revision cases are challenging due to previous holes into the patella or implants placed in the anatomical femoral insertion site. In this technical note, the use of a partial quadriceps tendon transfer to the adductor magnus tendon is presented as a good solution for revision cases to avoid the use of implants, bone drilling, use of allografts, or two-stage surgical procedures. In addition, this procedure could be also used as a primary procedure in skeletally immature patients.

MPFL reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft: part 2: operative technique and short term clinical results

BACKGROUND

We describe the preliminary clinical results of a new operative technique for MPFL reconstruction using a strip of quadriceps tendon (QT).

PATIENTS

17 patients (7 male, 10 female; mean age 21.5 years ± 3.9) have been operated on with this technique. All patients were evaluated clinically, radiologically and with subjective questionnaires (Tegner-, Lysholm-, Kujala Score) pre-operatively and post-operatively at 6 and 12 months (m).

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

A 10 to 12 mm wide, 3mm thick and 8 to 10 cm long strip from the central aspect of quadriceps tendon is harvested subcutaneously. The tendon strip is then dissected distally on the patella, left attached, diverged 90° medially underneath the medial prepatellar tissue and fixed with 2 sutures. The graft is fixed in 20° of knee flexion with a bioabsorbable interference screw.

RESULTS

Lysholm score at 6m was 81.9 ± 11.7 and at 12 m 88.1 ± 10.9, Kujala score at 12 m was 89.2 ± 7.1 and Tegner Score was 4.9 ± 2.0 (6m) and 5.0 ± 1.9 (12 m). Two patients had a positive apprehension test at 12 months. There was no re-dislocation during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

MPFL reconstruction with a strip of QT harvested in a minimal invasive technique was found to be associated with good short term clinical results. We think that this technique presents a valuable alternative to common hamstring techniques for primary MPFL reconstruction in children and adults, as well as for MPFL revision surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, prospective case series.

MPFL reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft: part 1: biomechanical properties of quadriceps tendon MPFL reconstruction in comparison to the Intact MPFL. A human cadaveric study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to analyze the structural properties of the original MPFL and to compare it to a MPFL-reconstruction-technique using a strip of quadriceps tendon.

METHODS

In 13 human cadaver knees the MPFLs were dissected protecting their insertion at the patellar border. The MPFL was loaded to failure after preconditioning with 10 cycles in a uniaxial testing machine evaluating stiffness, yield load and maximum load to failure. In the second part Quadriceps-MPFL-reconstruction was performed and tested in a uniaxial testing machine. Following preconditioning, the constructs were cyclically loaded 1000 times between 5 and 50 N measuring the maximum elongation. After cyclic testing, the constructs have been loaded to failure measuring stiffness, yield load and maximum load. For statistical analysis a repeated measures (RM) one-way ANOVA for multiple comparisons was used. The significance was set at P<0.05.

RESULTS

During the load to failure tests of the original MPFL the following results were measured: stiffness 29.4 N/mm (+9.8), yield load 167.8 N (+80) and maximum load to failure 190.7 N (+82.8). The results in the QT-technique group were as follows: maximum elongation after 1000 cycles 2.1 mm (+0.8), stiffness 33.6 N/mm (+6.8), yield load 147.1 N (+65.1) and maximum load to failure 205 N (+77.8). There were no significant differences in all tested parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

In a human cadaveric model using a strip of quadriceps-tendon 10 mm wide and 3mm deep, the biomechanical properties match those of the original MPFL when tested as a reconstruction.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The tested QT-technique shows sufficient primary stability with comparable biomechanical parameters to the intact MPFL.

Arthroscopic extraarticular reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament with gracilis tendon autograft - surgical technique

The standard approach to reconstruct the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is by mini-open incision at its patellar insertion and femoral origin. At the medial patella rim, the MPFL insertion may be visualized in most cases by dissection during surgery. On the femur, it is more difficult to localize the MPFL remnants by a mini-open incision due to soft tissue covering the anatomical origin. Therefore, the femoral MPFL origin is usually identified by intraoperative lateral fluoroscopy. However, the insertion and origin of the MPFL at the patella and femur might be directly visualized using an arthroscopic extraarticular approach from the knee joint through a window of the synovial layer. This is especially helpful on the femoral side but also at the patella to find the individual anatomical MPFL footprints. Arthroscopic extraarticular reconstruction may then be performed using one additional medial mid-parapatellar portal. The major advantages of this technique are an individualized anatomical procedure, which is minimal invasive and cosmetically appealing. The aim of this study was to describe the arthroscopic extraarticular approach to the MPFL insertion at the patella and origin at the femur through synovial windows and to explain the procedure of arthroscopic MPFL reconstruction with a gracilis tendon autograft. Level of evidence Expert opinion, surgical technique, Level V.