ACL Reconstruction with Quadrupled Hamstring Tendon: Study of Fixation Method and Rehabilitation

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate appropriate rehabilitation program after ACL reconstruction using double- looped semitendonosus and gracilis graft. MATERIAL AND METHOD: ACL reconstruction using double-looped semitendinosus and gracilis tendon was performed in thirty patients from March 1997 to February 1999, and the patients were evaluated with K-T 2000 arthrometer, Lachman test, pivot shift test, mid-thigh circumference and Lysholm score. We divided the patients into three group; in group A, conservative rehabilitation after bio-absorbable screw fixation was done, in group B, aggressive rehabilitation after bioabsorbable screw fixation was done, in group C, aggressive rehabilitation after Semi-Fix fixation was done. RESULTS: Average K-T 2000 maximum manual side-to-side difference was 0.73mm in group A, 3.66mm in group B, 0.91mm in group C at 6 weeks after the operation. The difference was greater in group B than group A and C. There was no difference in mid thigh circumference and Lysholm score at one year post- operatively. Positive signs in Lachman test and pivot shift test were increased in group B than group A and group C. CONCLUSION: Rehabilitation after bioabsorbable screw fixation of double-looped hamstring tendon should be performed conservatively, because aggressive rehabilitation might increase joint laxity.