Clinical Outcome after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Hamstring Tendon Autograft: A Prospective Study with 6 Months Follow-Up

Abstract

Objective: The goal of our study is to show that after single-bundle anatomic ACL reconstruction technique using hamstring tendon autograft (quadrupled semitendinosus and gracillis tendons), there is excellent objective knee stability and the return of flexor muscles strength. Methods: 65 patients aged 13–46 entered our study and were operated with a single bundle ACL reconstruction technique using hamstring tendon autograft. The operation and postoperative protocol were standardized. Patients were evaluated at 3 and 6 months postoperatively with clinical examination, KT–1000 measurements, functional scores (Balance index, Hop index, IKDC, isokinetic testing) and subjective questionnaire (Lysholm score, Tegner score). Results: 65 patients were evaluated 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Lachman test was negative in 92% and the pivot-shift test was negative in 89% of patients at 6 months follow-up. KT–1000 stability testing revealed a difference of 1.05 mm ± 2.83. At final follow-up, overall IKDC evaluation grade A and B were obtained in 96% of patients. The mean Lysholm score, 6 months postoperative was 94. There was no statistically significant difference in the angle of peak torque inflexion at 60°/s at 6 months follow-up. Conclusion: Our study shows that the strength of knee flexion six months after harvesting both hamstring tendons returns. However, there is still a statistically significant difference in knee flexion peak torque, when comparing the operative and non-operative side. Single bundle anatomic ACL reconstruction gives excellent knee stability and good clinical results with normal knee range of motion and returns to the appropriate level of activity.