The Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis after Various Types of Knee Surgery / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Purpose@#The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after various types of knee surgery and to identify patients at high risk. @*Materials and Methods@#This retrospective was conducted using the medical records of knee surgeries conducted by one surgeon at Gachon University Gil Medical Center between May 2019 and December 2020. The occurrence of DVT was determined by venous ultrasonography 4 to 6 days after surgery, and the incidence of DVT was determined for arthroscopic ligament surgery, arthroscopic meniscus surgery, arthroplasty, and osteotomy. Patients diagnosed with DVT were treated with a pharmacological agent for 3 months, and DVT was reevaluated by Doppler sonography at 3 months postoperatively. @*Results@#Among a total of 221 cases, 75 cases (33.9%) were diagnosed with DVT. The incidence of DVT was significantly dependent on type of surgery, that is, anterior cruciate ligament surgery (ACL) 29.4%, meniscus surgery 30.2%, artroplasty 33.3%, and osteotomy 52.4%. In 60 of the 75 cases, DVT was successfully managed without complication by pharmacologic treatment. On the other hand, in 3 cases, pharmacologic treatment was stopped due to side effects. The other 15 cases were managed conservatively. A significant correlation was found between tourniquet application and incidence of DVT, and in the arthroplasty group, age and DVT were significantly correlated. However, surgical time was not correlated with DVT. @*Conclusion@#The incidence of DVT after knee surgery is significantly dependent on type of surgery. We believe that the absence of any severe complication, such as systemic or pulmonary embolism, related to DVT was due to early detection and adequate pharmaceutical management. Furthermore, we recommend that tourniquet not to be applied to patients at high risk of DVT.

The effect of interleukin-8 in the early stage after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with remnant preservation

Purpose@#We studied the effect of interleukin-8 (IL-8) as the factor for angiogenesis in the joint fluid of remnantpreserved anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (RP-ACLR). @*Materials and methods@#We measured 12 cytokines in joint fluid by multiplex assay and assessed the relationship between IL-8 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations. The signal intensity and mean sagittal diameter via postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were evaluated and the stress X-ray image was analyzed at 3, 6, and 12 months after operation. @*Results@#The IL-8 concentration was highest 3 months postoperatively in those patients who underwent RP-ACLR.Clinical data also showed that the signal intensity and stress radiography of the knee graft were significantly better at the early postoperative stage.Discussion: Our results show that IL-8 plays an important role in angiogenesis within 3 months after RP-ACLR. This effect yields better recovery after operation. RP-ACLR patients with high knee stability in clinical data were identical to those with high expression of IL-8 in experimental data. Therefore, IL-8 has been shown to help revascularization and ligamentization of the grafted tendon. These results indicate that IL-8 in RP-ACLR is an important factor for angiogenesis after operation. Unfortunately, the relationship of IL-8 and VEGF in vivo has not been studied. @*Conclusion@#Our results showed that the IL-8 concentration was very high within 3 months after RP-ACLR operation. The increase in concentration of IL-8 over time was consistent with the increase in VEGF concentration.In the IL-8 clinical setting, MRI analysis showed that ACL synovialization and tension were better in patients who underwent the remnant preservation method. In addition, it was shown that RP-ACLR may be advantageous for early anterior stability within 1 year post operation and beneficial for tendon graft in the early stage post operation.Taken together, our findings suggest that IL-8 may contribute to angiogenesis which is helpful for revascularization and ligamentization of the graft tendon in the early stages of RP-ACLR.

Analysis of Mechanical Loading after Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Combined Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography and Conventional Computerized Tomography

PURPOSE: This study was to evaluate changes of the mechanical loading pattern after anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction by analyzing uptake patterns using combined single-photon emission computerized tomography and conventional computerized tomography (SPECT/CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: On SPECT/CT, high signal intensity of the articular surface which shows biological activity and mean increase of mechanical loading was compared with that of the tibiofemoral shaft as a comparative signal. The proportion of positive signals was evaluated in all compartments of the operated knee. Analysis was performed according to combined injury. RESULTS: A relatively high proportion of positive signals was detected in the posterior zone of the lateral tibial plateau (23.5%) and trochlear groove (23.5%) although increased signal intensity was detected in all compartments. There was no statistical difference depending on the presence of combined injury and between single-bundle and double-bundle ACL reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Following anatomic ACL reconstruction, higher signal intensity was detected, particularly in the posterior part of the lateral tibial plateau and trochlear groove. Close observation for further signal changes or osteoarthritic changes would be required even if there was no combined injury and anatomic reconstruction was performed.

The mechanism and cause of anterior cruciate ligament tear in the Korean military environment

PURPOSE@#Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is very common but few studies have analyzed the injury mechanism and cause of ACL tear in a specific environment such as a military institution. The purpose of this study was to analyze the injury mechanism and cause of ACL injury in the military environment. Additionally, this study could provide outcomes that may aid future studies on prevention of ACL injury in military personnel.@*MATERIALS AND METHODS@#This study retrospectively analyzed 168 patients who sustained ACL tear while in military service and underwent ACL reconstruction surgery in a military hospital. Analysis of the injury mechanism and the cause was evaluated by analyzing the medical records. Knee magnetic resonance imaging analysis was also conducted for further evaluation of associated injury.@*RESULTS@#The majority of ACL injuries in the military environment occurred through non-contact injury. Changing direction (46.4%) was the most common lower-leg position, followed by landing with the knee in a valgus position (26.8%). The activity undertaken at the time of injury was exercise in 76.2% of cases and military training/daily activities in 23.8% of cases. The incidence of ACL injury was higher in the soldier compared to the officer group during exercise (P = 0.017). Soccer was the most common activity at the time of injury (54.1%), followed by military training/daily activities, futsal, and basketball. The most common injury time was between 30 and 60 min after the start of exercise. Commonly associated injury sites were the medial meniscus and the medial collateral ligament.@*CONCLUSIONS@#The main mechanism of ACL injury occurring in the military environment was non-contact injury, especially on changing the direction of the lower leg. Soccer was the most frequent activity at the time of the injury. These findings suggested that preventive strategies against ACL injury in the military environment could effectively reduce the incidence of ACL injury.

A Randomized, Multicenter, Phase III Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Polmacoxib Compared with Celecoxib and Placebo for Patients with Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and analgesic efficacy of polmacoxib 2 mg versus placebo in a superiority comparison or versus celecoxib 200 mg in a noninferiority comparison in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS: This study was a 6-week, phase III, randomized, double-blind, and parallel-group trial followed by an 18-week, single arm, open-label extension. Of the 441 patients with knee or hip OA screened, 362 were randomized; 324 completed 6 weeks of treatment and 220 completed the extension. Patients were randomized to receive oral polmacoxib 2 mg (n = 146), celecoxib 200 mg (n = 145), or placebo (n = 71) once daily for 6 weeks. During the extension, all participants received open-label polmacoxib 2 mg. The primary endpoint was the change in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC)-pain subscale score from baseline to week 6. Secondary endpoints included WOMAC-OA Index, OA subscales (pain, stiffness, and physical function) and Physician's and Subject's Global Assessments at weeks 3 and 6. Other outcome measures included adverse events (AEs), laboratory tests, vital signs, electrocardiograms, and physical examinations. RESULTS: After 6 weeks, the polmacoxib-placebo treatment difference was −2.5 (95% confidence interval [CI], −4.4 to −0.6; p = 0.011) and the polmacoxib-celecoxib treatment difference was 0.6 (CI, −0.9 to 2.2; p = 0.425). According to Physician's Global Assessments, more subjects were “much improved” at week 3 with polmacoxib than with celecoxib or placebo. Gastrointestinal and general disorder AEs occurred with a greater frequency with polmacoxib or celecoxib than with placebo. CONCLUSIONS: Polmacoxib 2 mg was relatively well tolerated and demonstrated efficacy superior to placebo and noninferior to celecoxib after 6 weeks of treatment in patients with OA. The results obtained during the 18-week trial extension with polmacoxib 2 mg were consistent with those observed during the 6-week treatment period, indicating that polmacoxib can be considered safe for long-term use based on this relatively small scale of study in a Korean population. More importantly, the results of this study showed that polmacoxib has the potential to be used as a pain relief drug with reduced gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for OA.

The SPECT/CT Evaluation of Compartmental Changes after Open Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate compartmental changes using combined single-photon emission computerized tomography and conventional computerized tomography (SPECT/CT) after open wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) for providing clinical guidance for proper correction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analysis was performed using SPECT/CT from around 1 year after surgery on 22 patients who underwent OWHTO. Postoperative mechanical axis was measured and classified into 3 groups: group I (varus), group II (0°–3° valgus), and group III (>3° valgus). Patella location was evaluated using Blackburne-Peel (BP) ratio. On SPECT/CT, the knee joint was divided into medial, lateral, and patellofemoral compartments and the brighter signal was marked as a positive signal. RESULTS: Increased signal activity in the medial compartment was observed in 12 cases. No correlation was observed between postoperative mechanical axis and medial signal increase. Lateral increased signal activity was observed in 3 cases, and as valgus degree increased, lateral compartment’s signal activity increased. Increased signal activity of the patellofemoral joint was observed in 7 cases, and significant correlation was observed between changes in BP ratio and increased signal activity. CONCLUSIONS: For the treatment of medial osteoarthritis, OWHTO requires overcorrection that does not exceed 3 valgus. In addition, the possibility of a patellofemoral joint problem after OWHTO should be kept in mind.

Posterior Shift of Contact Point between Femoral Component and Polyethylene in the LCS Rotating Platform Implant under Weight Bearing Condition

PURPOSE: To analyze the contact mechanics of the femoral component and polyethylene of the Low Contact Stress rotating platform (LCS-RP) in nonweight bearing and weight bearing conditions using full flexion lateral radiographs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From May 2009 to December 2013, 58 knees in 41 patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis and treated with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were included in this study. TKA was performed using an LCS-RP knee prosthesis. Full flexion lateral radiographs in both weight bearing and nonweight bearing condition were taken at least one month postoperatively (average, 28.8 months). Translation of femoral component was determined by the contact point between the femoral component and polyethylene. Maximum flexion was measured as the angle between the lines drawn at the midpoint of the femur and tibia. RESULTS: Posterior shift of the contact point in LCS-RP TKA was observed under weight bearing condition, which resulted in deeper flexion compared to LCS-RP TKA under nonweight bearing condition. CONCLUSIONS: In the LCS-RP TKA, the contact point between the femoral component and polyethylene moved posteriorly under weight bearing condition, and the joint was more congruent and maximum flexion increased with weight bearing.

Comparison of Clinical and Radiological Results between Posteromedial Portal Technique and Posterior Transseptal Portal Technique in Making a Tibial Tunnel in Single Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with Remnant Preservation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical and radiological results between posteromedial portal technique and posterior transseptal portal technique in making a tibial tunnel in single bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction with remnant preservation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-three cases of posteromedial portal technique and 35 cases of posterior transseptal portal technique in making a tibial tunnel in single bundle PCL reconstruction with remnant preservation were evaluated retrospectively. The clinical evaluation, including function and stability, was assessed. The tibial tunnel placement was measured using computed tomography. RESULTS: At final follow-up, the clinical results showed significant improvement compared to preoperation in both groups. There were no significant differences in clinical results including function and stability in both groups. The centers of tibial tunnels by posteromedial portal technique were placed more medially and proximally than those of the posterior transseptal portal technique. CONCLUSION: Remnant preserved single bundle PCL reconstructions by posteromedial portal technique and posterior transseptal portal technique were good methods for restoring function and stability compared to preoperation. There were no significant differences in clinical results in both groups. However, the tibial tunnels by posteromedial portal technique tended to be more medial and proximal placements than those of the posterior transseptal portal technique.

Anatomic Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using an Outside-in Technique: Two- to Six-Year Clinical and Radiological Follow-up

PURPOSE: We evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using an outside-in technique with a follow-up of two- to six-years, especially in terms of the sports activity level and radiological degeneration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-seven patients who were available for a minimum two-year follow-up after double-bundle ACL reconstruction using an outside-in technique were retrospectively evaluated. The mean follow-up period was 43.7 months. The knee function and stability were evaluated before the operation, one year after the operation (short-term follow-up), and more than two years after the operation (last follow-up). RESULTS: Regarding the knee function, the Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, and hop test showed significant improvement. Regarding the stability, the Lachman test, pivot shift test, KT-2000 arthrometer data, and anterior drawer radiographs using Telos showed significant improvement. Regarding the sports activity level, the patients who returned to pre-injury level activity was 68.7% according to the Tegner activity score and 76.1% according to the Cincinnati sports activity scale score. The incidence of aggravated degeneration or development of greater than IKDC grade A degeneration after surgery was 10.4%. CONCLUSIONS: Double-bundle ACL reconstruction using an outside-in technique showed favorable clinical and radiological outcomes with respect to the knee function and stability, joint degeneraion, and, especially, return to pre-injury sports activity.

Medial Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Plate Osteosynthesis in Proximal Tibial Comminuted Fractures / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: This goal of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of proximal tibial comminuted fractures treated with medial minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 43 patients who underwent medial MIPPO from February 2008 to February 2012 and were followed up for more than one year. According to the AO/OTA classification, there were 30 patients of 41-A3 and 13 patients of 41-C2. Thirty-six patients had closed fractures and seven patients had open fractures. We assessed clinical outcomes, radiologic results and postoperative complications. RESULTS: All fractures were united at an average of 18.3+/-8.1 weeks except three patients with nonunion. According to Schatzker and Lambert assessment, excellent results were achieved for 22 patients and good results were achieved for 21 patients. The average tibial plateau angle was 89.1degrees+/-2.7degrees and the average posterior tibial slope angle was 10.5degrees+/-4.6degrees. In assessment of lower limb alignment, the average femorotibial angle was 175.1degrees+/-2.9degrees and the mean deviation of mechanical axis was 46.5%+/-12.7%. In terms of complications, three patients had nonunion, but complete bony union was achieved by autogenous cancellous bone grafting. Seven patients complained of skin irritation around the plate. However, there was no skin necrosis, infection, or limited range of motion in seven patients with skin irritation. CONCLUSION: Medial MIPPO for proximal tibial comminuted fractures provides favorable clinical outcomes and good radiological alignments.

Optimal Parameters for Sutures Tied to a Post during Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Thread Numbers, Knot Numbers, Suture Techniques and Stitch Numbers: An Experimental Laboratory Study Using Porcine Tendon / 대한스포츠의학회지

We evaluated the conditions required for sutures tied to a post for tibial fixation during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Harvested porcine tendon was used as a graft material and nonabsorbable suture was used for sutures. Samples were tested for ultimate tensile load and elongation according to thread numbers, knot numbers, suture techniques and stitch numbers. As thread numbers were increased, ultimate tensile load was increased and elongation was decreased. However, more than 4 strands of threads provided the sufficient ultimate tensile load more than 454 N of normal ACL for daily activities. As knot numbers were increased, ultimate tensile load was increased, but elongation was decreased. In terms of failure mode, unraveling occurred 100% in 3 and 4 knots, 81.2% in 5 knots, 54.5% in 6 knots, and 0% in 7 knots. Suture techniques and stitch numbers didn't significantly affect the ultimate tensile load and the elongation. For sutures tied to a post for tibial fixation in ACL reconstruction, more than 4 threads, more than 7 knots, and more than 4 stitches provide adequate ultimate tensile load and elongation.

Comparison of Complete Distal Release of the Medial Collateral Ligament and Medial Epicondylar Osteotomy during Ligament Balancing in Varus Knee Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: During ligament balancing for severe medial contracture in varus knee total knee arthroplasty (TKA), complete distal release of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or a medial epicondylar osteotomy can be necessary if a large amount of correction is needed. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed 9 cases of complete distal release of the MCL and 11 cases of medial epicondylar osteotomy which were used to correct severe medial contracture. The mean follow-up periods were 46.5 months (range, 36 to 78 months) and 39.8 months (range, 32 to 65 months), respectively. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the clinical results between the two groups. However, the valgus stress radiograph revealed significant differences in medial instability. In complete distal release of the MCL, some stability was obtained by repair and bracing but the medial instability could not be removed completely. CONCLUSIONS: Medial epicondylar osteotomy for a varus deformity in TKA could provide constant medial stability and be a useful ligament balancing technique.

Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Plate Stabilization Using a Medial Locking Plate for Proximal Tibial Fractures: Technical Note

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is beneficial for proximal tibial fractures since these injuries are mostly caused by high energy traumas. The advantages of MIPO are minimization of soft tissue dissection and preservation of periosteal vascularization. Lateral plating has mostly developed as MIPO for proximal tibial fractures. We introduce minimal invasive percutaneous plate stabilization using a medial locking plate as alternative treatment for proximal tibial fractures.

Relationship between Tibial Bone Defect and Extent of Medial Release in Total Knee Arthroplasty

PURPOSE: To understand the relationship between tibial bone defect and extent of medial release in total knee arthroplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 32 knees in 22 patients with variable degrees of tibial bone defect on medial plateau has undergone total knee arthroplasty. In this study, 31 cases had been diagnosed as degenerative osteoarthritis and 1 case was osteonecrosis. We excluded cases with infection, traumatic arthritis, or neuropathic joints. With regard to gender, 29 cases were female and 3 cases were male. The following relationships were analyzed: preoperative degrees of tibial bone defect and varus deformity; the femorotibial angle of both weight-bearing whole extremity radiogram, distractive stress radiogram, and the extent of medial release. RESULTS: Average tibial bone defect was 9.8+/-4.1 mm. Average femorotibial angle on weight-bearing whole extremity radiograph was varus 10.0degrees+/-6.2degrees. Average femorotibial angle on distractive stress radiograph was varus 0.7degrees+/-4.6degrees. Statistically the extent of medial release showed no significant relationship with the degree of tibial bone defect and femoro-tibial angle of whole extremity radiogram. However, it revealed a statistically significant relationship with the femorotibial angle on distractive radiogram (r=0.465, p=0.007). CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative distractive stress radiograph might be a useful method to predict the extent of intraoperative medial release during total knee arthroplasty.

A Comparison of the Clinical and Radiographic Results of Press Fit Condylar Rotating-Platform High-Flexion and Low Contact Stress Mobile Bearing Prosthesis in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Short term Results

PURPOSE: This study compared the results of rotating-platform high-flexion (RP-F) total knee arthroplasty with low contact stress (LCS) for clinical and radiographical assessment after a short-term period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 68 total knee arthroplasties using a RP-F and LCS system were analyzed retrospectively. Thirty-five of the 68 were osteoarthritic knees and were followed-up for more than 2 years. The clinical evaluation included range of motion (ROM), Knee Society Knee Score and Function Score (KSKS and KSFS), tailor position and kneeling. The radiographic evaluation included femorotibial angle, position of implants, radiolucent line and position of patella. RESULTS: The postoperative ROM, KSKS, and KSFS improved statistically in both implants. Comparing RP-F with LCS there were statistically no differences in ROM (p=0.863), KSKS (p=0.835), KSFS (p=0.535) and tailor position (p=0.489). There were no significant radiographic differences. CONCLUSIONS: Total knee arthroplasty with RP-F and LCS showed similar clinical and radiographic results; it also showed excellent and predictable results at the short-term follow up. However, in RP-F there was 1 case of early osteolysis, 1 case of patella clunk syndrome and 1 case of painful patella crepitus; therefore, further case studies and follow-up are needed.

Delayed Knee Locking after Complicated Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Despite Good Stability Using A Bio-Transfix

We describe a case of delayed cyst formation that presented as intermittent knee locking after complicated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a Bio-TransFix implant in a 21-year-old male patient. During femoral fixation, we could not pull out the guide wire that was temporarily used for the femoral fixation. However, stability was good, and the guide wire was not removed. This was shown to be a wrong type of fixation in a later study. During follow-up, the patient was satisfied and stability was relatively good until 18 months post-operatively. From the 2nd post-operative year, he experienced intermittent knee swelling and locking and pain around the lateral femoral condyle. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging showed a large cyst around the broken wire tip, but the reconstructed ACL was fine.

Rupture of Posterior Cruciate Ligament: Diagnosis and Treatment Principles

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries associated with multiple ligament injuries can be easily diagnosed, but isolated PCL tears are less symptomatic, very difficult to diagnose, and frequently misdiagnosed. If a detailed investigation of the history of illness suggests a PCL injury, careful physical examinations including the posterior drawer test, dial test, varus and valgus test should be done especially if the patient complains of severe posterior knee pain in >90degrees of flexion. Vascular assessment and treatment should be done to avoid critical complications. An individualized treatment plan should be established after consideration of the type of tear, time after injury, associated collateral ligament injuries, bony alignment, and status of remnant. The rehabilitation should be carried out slower than that after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Surgical Treatment of Habitual Patella Dislocation with Genu Valgum

Habitual dislocation of patella is a rare disorder. Sometimes it is associated with angular deformity such as genu valgum. We experienced habitual patella dislocation associated with genu valgum that was treated with corrective osteotomy of distal femur and soft tissue realignment procedure including lateral release and medial reefing.

Relation between Second-look Arthroscopic Findings and Clinical Results after Double Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship between the findings of a second-look arthroscopy and clinical results in double bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using hamstring tendons fixed with a Ligament Plate(R). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty eight cases of a double bundle ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendons were retrospectively reviewed. The follow-up period was more than 1 year and all cases were reviewed by second-look arthroscopy. The average follow-up period was 20.6 months (range: 12-34 months). In second-look arthroscopy, the anteromedial (AM) bundle and posterolateral (PL) bundle of the grafts were evaluated based on the tension, rupture and synovial coverage. Clinical evaluation was assessed using the Lysholm score, international knee documentation committee score, Hop test, Lachman test, pivot shift test, KT-2000 arthrometer and anterior drawer stress radiograph using Telos(R) in 30degrees knee flexion. The correlation between the arthroscopic findings of the grafts and the instability tests was evaluated. RESULTS: The AM graft was evaluated as being taut in 89.3% and lax in 10.7%, and the PL graft was assessed as being taut in 71.4% and lax in 28.6% according to the tension. The AM and PL grafts were evaluated as 'no rupture' in 78.6% and 'partial rupture' in 21.4%. There was no 'complete rupture' in any graft. The AM grafts were found to be good in 53.6%, fair in 35.7% and poor in 10.7%; the PL grafts were assessed as good in 50.0%, fair in 28.6% and poor in 21.4% according to the synovial coverage. The AM graft tension showed statistically significant results regarding both the Lachman test (rho=0.743, p<0.001) and degree of rupture (rho=0.438, p=0.020). The PL graft tension showed statistically significant results regarding both the pivot shift test (rho=0.548, p=0.003) and the degree of rupture (rho=0.663, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Double bundle ACL reconstructions using hamstring tendons show good biological and clinical results. The graft tension and the degree of rupture show a statistically significant relationship to the stability of the reconstructed joint. On the other hand, the synovial coverage did not show a significant result.

The Relationship between the Evaluation of the Graft-bone Interface and the Clinical Results after Double Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship between an evaluation of the graft-bone interface using magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography and the clinical results after double bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From December 2005 to October 2007, 15 cases that underwent double bundle ACL reconstruction and that were evaluated by MR arthrography were reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 20 months. The graft-bone interface was assessed by the leakage of contrast medium seen on MR arthrography. Four groups were classified according to the degree of contrast media leakage: no contrast media leakage, the focal type, the crescent type and the circumferential type. A functional evaluation was made using the Lysholm score, the international knee documentation committee (IKDC) score, the difference in the midthigh circumference and the Hop test. The stability was evaluated using a Lachmann test, a pivot shift test, a KT-2000 arthrometer and an anterior drawer stress radiograph using Telos(R) with the knee in 30degrees flexion. RESULTS: Ten cases showed no leakage of contrast media, five cases showed focal leakage and there was no case of crescent and circumferential leakage. The clinical results of the no leakage and focal leakage groups were compared. The functional evaluation such as the Lysholm score, the IKDC score, the difference in the midthigh circumference and the Hop test showed no significant difference between the two groups. The stability evaluation, such as the Lachmann test, the pivot shift test, the KT-2000 arthrometer and anterior drawer stress radiograph, also showed no significant difference. CONCLUSION: On MR arthrography after double bundle ACL reconstruction, adequate osteointegration and satisfactory clinical results could be obtained in the no leakage and focal leakage groups.