Evaluation of Transtibial Double-Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using a Single-Sling Method With a Tibialis Anterior Allograft

Abstract

Background: The authors devised a double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction technique in combination with a single-sling method. However, the double-bundle technique needs more simplicity and a decreased possibility of failure.

Hypothesis: A novel surgical technique of transtibial double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a single-sling method with a tibialis anterior allograft, previously introduced, produces satisfactory results.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Twenty-one patients who underwent double-bundle transtibial isolated posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a single-sling method between July 2003 and September 2007 were enrolled in this study. The exclusion criteria applied were (1) a multiligamentous injury, (2) posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction previously performed using another technique, and (3) the presence of any additional injury capable of affecting knee stability. The Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee scales were used for the clinical outcome evaluation. Stability was evaluated using a KT-2000 arthrometer. The evaluation was performed by comparing preoperative and last follow-up results.

Results: Nineteen men and 2 women were enrolled, with a mean follow-up of 49.2 months (range, 25-73 months). The mean Lysholm score was 53 ± 5.3 (range, 34-68) preoperatively and improved to 83.5 ± 13 (range, 61-97) at the last follow-up after surgery (P < .001). The IKDC score also improved from preoperative (0 A, 0 B, 7 C, 14 D) to final follow-up (8 A, 9 B, 3 C, 1 D; P < .001). Mean side-to-side difference in posterior translation, measured using the KT-2000 arthrometer, was 13.5 ± 1.2 mm preoperatively and 3.4 ± 0.8 mm at last follow-up evaluations (mean 51.7 months postoperatively).

Conclusion: After follow-up for longer than 24 months, the transtibial double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with a single sling was found to produce satisfactory clinical and stability results, which indicates that the described technique should be viewed as a viable alternative.