Combined ACLR and lateral extra-articular tenodesis with a continuous iliotibial band autograft is a viable option in a population of athletes who participate in pivoting sports.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical results, return to sport and complications after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) associated with lateral extra-articular tenodesis using continuous plasty with an iliotibial band.

Methods: This was a prospective multicentre study involving 186 patients who had surgery for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. Patients with multiligament ruptures and revision surgery were excluded from the study. All patients included were involved in pivoting sports and wished to resume their activity after surgery. Patients were assessed at a minimum 2-year follow-up using functional and psychological questionnaires (subjective International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Tegner, Lysholm and ACL-RSI scores), ligament assessment including instrumented laxity measurement (Rolimeter), Lachman test and pivot shift and isokinetic testing. Return to sport was assessed using a questionnaire, and complications and repeat surgeries were recorded.

Results: At a mean follow-up of 43.1 months, the subjective IKDC, Lysholm, ACL-RSI and objective IKDC scores were significantly improved (59.8 vs. 94.5 p < 0.0001, 75 vs. 99 p < 0.0001, 60 vs. 93 p < 0.0001, IKDC A 0% vs. 72%, B 12% vs. 27%, C 60% vs. 1% D 28% vs. 0% p < 0.0001). The Tegner activity level was 9 (3-10) before the accident and 9 (3-10) at the last review. Seventy-six percent of the patients had returned to sports at the same level. The differential laxity was 6.6 mm (±1.7) preoperatively and 1.1 mm (±1.4) postoperatively. Additionally, 97% were equal in pivot shift at the last follow-up. At the 6-month isokinetic assessment, the muscle strength recovery for the quadriceps and hamstring was over 85% compared with the healthy side for 79% and 70% of the patients, respectively. Ten patients had graft rupture (5.6%). Four (2.4%) patients had a contralateral ACL rupture, and seven (4%) underwent a reoperation with meniscectomy.

Conclusion: Anterior ligament reconstruction with lateral extra-articular tenodesis using a continuous strip of iliotibial band enables 76% of patients in a population with a high demand for sports to resume their activities at the same level. The clinical results and complication rates, particularly reruptures (5.6%), were similar to those of other techniques involving lateral extra-articular tenodesis.

Level of evidence: Level II.