Clinical outcomes after ACL reconstruction with free quadriceps tendon autograft versus hamstring tendons autograft. A retrospective study with a minimal follow-up two years

Quadriceps Tendon Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Skeletally Immature Patients: 3-Year Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The rate of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture in active, skeletally immature patients is increasing. Although hamstring tendon autograft (HTA) was previously deemed the gold standard, recent studies have shown HTA to have a high failure rate in this high-risk population of young competitive athletes, and quadriceps tendon autograft (QTA) has yielded excellent preliminary outcomes in some studies examining this population.

PURPOSE

To evaluate 3-year clinical and patient-reported functional outcomes of primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) with soft tissue QTA in skeletally immature patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Skeletally immature patients who underwent ACLR with a full-thickness soft tissue QTA were included. Preoperative patient and surgical data were collected. The ACLR technique was selected predicated upon skeletal age and included all-epiphyseal and complete transphyseal techniques. Patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years with successive clinical visits or were contacted via telephone. Patients who did not have minimum 2-year follow-up after 3 contact attempts via telephone were excluded. Information regarding return to sports (RTS) and concomitant or subsequent surgical procedures was collected. Pediatric International Knee Documentation Committee (Pedi-IKDC), Hospital for Special Surgery Functional Activity Brief Scale (HSS Pedi-FABS), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores were collected.

RESULTS

Of 85 adolescent patients aged 11.1 to 17.6 years (mean age, 14.1 ± 1.2 years), 2 patients were determined to be lost to follow-up after 3 failed contact attempts. Of the patients included in this study (N = 83), 26 patients (31%) underwent all-epiphyseal and 57 patients (69%) underwent complete transphyseal ACLR. Additionally, 48 patients (58%) underwent concomitant lateral extra-articular tenodesis using the iliotibial band with a modified Lemaire technique. The mean follow-up time was 3.7 ± 1.2 years (range, 2-7 years). Twenty (24%) patients had subsequent surgical procedures, of which 3 (4%) were due to graft failures. At a mean 3-year follow-up, the mean Pedi-IKDC, HSS Pedi-FABS, and SANE scores were 90, 23, and 94 respectively; the RTS rate was 100%; and the rate of RTS at the previous level of performance was 93%.

CONCLUSION

Use of a soft tissue QTA for ALCR in a high-risk skeletally immature population of athletes resulted in excellent postoperative outcomes with low rates of graft failure and high return to sport rates.

Postoperative Strength Differences at Short-Term Follow-Up Vary Based on Autograft Harvest Site After Adolescent Transphyseal Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical and patient-reported outcomes of adolescent patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with quadriceps tendon (QT) versus hamstring tendon (HT) autograft.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of adolescent patients aged 18 years or younger treated at a single tertiary care children's hospital who underwent primary transphyseal ACLR using QT or HT between January 2018 and December 2019. All patients had minimum 6-month follow-up. Outcomes included isokinetic strength testing, postoperative Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System and International Knee Documentation Committee scores, and complications; these were compared between the QT and HT cohorts.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients (44 HT and 40 QT patients) were included. The QT cohort had a higher proportion of male patients (62.5% vs 34.1%, P = .01). At 3 months, HT patients had a lower hamstring-quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio (60.7 ± 11.0 vs 79.5 ± 18.6, P < .01) and lower Limb Symmetry Index in flexion (85.6 ± 16.1 vs 95.5 ± 15.7, P = .01) whereas QT patients had a lower Limb Symmetry Index in extension (67.3 ± 9.5 vs 77.4 ± 10.7, P < .01). The H/Q ratio at 6 months was lower in HT patients (59.4 ± 11.5 vs 66.2 ± 7.5, P < .01). Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System and International Knee Documentation Committee scores were not different at 3 months or latest follow-up. QT patients had more wound issues (20.0% vs 2.3%, P = .01). Patients receiving HT autograft had more ipsilateral knee injuries (18.2% vs 2.5%, P = .03), but there was no difference in graft failure for ACLR using HT versus QT (9.1% vs 2.5%, P = .36).

CONCLUSIONS

There were no differences in patient-reported outcome measures between patients receiving QT autografts and those receiving HT autografts. Patients with QT grafts had more postoperative wound issues but a lower rate of ipsilateral knee complications (graft failure or meniscal tear). Differences in quadriceps and hamstring strength postoperatively compared with the contralateral limb were observed for adolescent ACLR patients receiving QT and HT autografts, respectively. This contributed to higher H/Q ratios seen at 3 and 6 months postoperatively for patients receiving QT autografts.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative therapeutic study.

Association of Quadriceps Tendon Harvest for ACL Reconstruction With Development of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Patella in Pediatric Patients

Background

There are various reported complications after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) necessitating additional surgery in skeletally immature patients, regardless of technique and autograft type.

Purpose

To analyze the rate and type of complications encountered with soft tissue quadriceps tendon autograft (QTA) for ACLR in patients ≤18 years as well as the overall rate of second surgery, unrelated to the use of the QTA.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A total of 141 patients ≤18 years who underwent ACLR with a QTA and had minimum 6-month follow-up were included. All patients underwent ACLR by utilizing a full-thickness soft tissue QTA. Complications associated with the QTA harvest site and use of QTA were reported.

Results

The mean age of the included cohort (84 men, 57 women) was 14.8 ± 1.6 years. The average follow-up was of 2.0 ± 1.2 years. A total of 30 (21%) patients had a subsequent complication that required surgical intervention; in 11 (8%) patients, the complication was specifically associated with the use of a QTA, whereas in 19 (13%) patients, the complication was related to the ACLR. In addition, 13 (9%) patients underwent a contralateral ACLR procedure. Of the QTA-related complications, 2 patients developed osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)-like lesions in the superior aspect of the patella, 2 patients had injured their quadriceps extensor mechanism and required surgical repair, and 8 patients had a subsequent procedure to remove nonabsorbable sutures used for donor site quadriceps tendon closure. One of the patients who underwent the removal of nonabsorbable sutures also had an arthroscopic debridement of patellar chondral damage.

Conclusion

We reported complications encountered with soft tissue QTA for ACLR. The complication rate for QTA harvest was 8%. However, given that the removal of nonabsorbable sutures from the donor site was caused by the surgical technique used, the revised nonsuture-related complication rate for QTA graft harvest was 2%. Although the use of a QTA has recently gained popularity due to its high return-to-sport and low graft-failure rates, surgeons should be aware of the complications associated with using this graft type.

A prospective randomized controlled study of hamstring and bone-free quadriceps tendons autografts in arthroscopic ACL reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is one of the most common surgical procedures worldwide. However, the ideal graft source is still debatable. This study compared hamstring (HT) and bone-free quadriceps (QT) tendon autografts in terms of muscle strength and patient-reported outcomes.

METHODS

Between June 2018 and December 2019, 46 patients were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned to one of two groups for the ACL reconstruction surgery-the HT autograft group or the QT autograft group. An experienced examiner performed preoperative and postoperative examinations. The HUMAC NORM isokinetic machine (Computer Sports Medicine International-CSMI, 2004) was used to assess flexor and extensor thigh muscle strength. Both groups received the same surgical technique and fixation method. All patients were examined after three, six, nine, and 12 months. The final evaluations were performed at the 24-month follow-up. Patients' scores on the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation form and the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale were used to evaluate patient-reported outcomes. The two groups were also compared in terms of postoperative complications and activity levels.

RESULTS

The difference between preoperative and postoperative knee flexor peak torques (FPT) was lower in the QT group than in the HT group. The average difference between preoperative and postoperative knee extensor peak torque (EPT) was higher in the QT group than in the HT group. As a result, the HT group had a lower postoperative H/Q ratio (flexor strength normalized to body mass divided by extensor strength normalized to body mass) than the QT group (p < 0.001). The mean IKDC scores for the HT and QT groups were 90.13 ± 6.99 and 87.12 ± 6.61, respectively. The scores of the two groups postoperatively were close, and both groups showed significant improvement. The average graft size in the QT group was significantly greater than that in the HT group. Saphenous nerve palsy was the most common complication in the HT group (22%). Thigh hematomas were observed in two patients in the QT group and required urgent intervention (12%).

CONCLUSION

After ACL reconstruction, we found a significant decrease in strength at the donor sites in both techniques, with similar patient-reported measures and stability outcomes. The H/Q strength ratio was higher in the QT group postoperatively, which may have a protective effect on the reconstructed ligament. Level of Evidence I It is a randomized controlled trial.

Adverse Events and Complications After Primary ACL Reconstruction With Quadriceps Tendon Autograft: A Systematic Review

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery with quadriceps tendon (QT) grafts, both with and without a patellar bone plug, have gained popularity in recent years in the primary and revision settings. Postoperative complications occur with the use of QT autografts.

Purpose

To systematically review the incidence of postoperative complications after primary ACLR QT autograft and compare complication rates in patients undergoing all-soft tissue QT grafts versus QT grafts with a patellar bone plug (QTPB).

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A literature search using the 2020 PRISMA guidelines was performed by querying PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases from database inception through August 2022. Included were evidence level 1 to 4 human clinical studies in English that reported complications after primary ACLR with QT autograft. The incidence of complications within the included studies was extracted. Differences in the incidence of postoperative complications between ACLR with QT with and without a patellar bone plug were calculated.

Results

A total of 20 studies from 2004 to 2022, comprised of 2381 patients (2389 knees; 68.3% male) with a mean age of 27 years (range, 12-58 years), were identified. The mean follow-up was 28.5 months (range, 6-47 months). The total incidence of complications was 10.3%, with persistent postoperative knee pain being the most common (10.8%). Patients who underwent ACLR with all-soft tissue QT grafts had a 2.7-times increased incidence of anterior knee pain (23.3% vs 8.6%) and reoperations (5.9% vs 3.2%) when compared with QTPB grafts (P < .01 for both). There was no appreciable difference in total complications, graft failures, ACLR revisions, cyclops lesions, or range of motion deficit (P > .05 for all). Patellar fractures occurred exclusively after QTPB (2.2%).

Conclusion

Complications after primary ACLR using QT autograft were recorded in 10.5% of knees, with anterior knee pain being the most common. No difference was reported in the overall incidence of complications with the use of the QT versus QTPB grafts; however, anterior knee pain was 2.7 times greater with use of a soft tissue quadriceps graft.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Autologous Hamstrings Augmented with Ligament Augmentation and Reconstruction Systems (LARS) or Synthetic Meshwork of LARS Compared with Four-Strand Hamstring Tendon Grafts Alone, a Prospective, Randomized Clinical Study with 2- to 8-Year Follow-Up

Purpose

To compare the long-term outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a four-strand hamstring tendon graft alone (hamstring group) or with synthetics (Ligament Augmentation and Reconstruction System, LARS group) or synthetic meshwork of LARS (meshwork group).

Methods

Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using four-strand hamstring tendon grafts (hamstring group), autologous hamstrings augmented with the LARS (LARS group), or synthetic meshwork of LARS (meshwork group) were selected in this prospective randomized clinical study. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were obtained preoperatively; at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively; and at final follow-up between 3 and 8 years. Second-look arthroscopic findings were used to evaluate graft morphology based on graft tension, graft tear, and synovial coverage.

Results

A total of 141 consecutive patients underwent ACL reconstruction, 47 patients in each group, and 21 patients were lost to follow-up during the study period. At the 6-month follow-up, the IKDC scores and Lysholm scores were significantly better in the LARS group (P < 0.05). At the 6- and 12-month follow-ups, the KOS-ADLS, KOOS-activities of daily living and quality of life, NSARS scores, GRC scores, Tegner scores, and ACL-RSI scores were significantly better in the LARS group (P < 0.05). For the LARS group, hamstring group, and meshwork group, the cumulative failure rates were 8.5%, 12.8%, and 4.3%, respectively. Malposition of the femoral tunnel was significantly associated with cumulative failure (P < 0.05). There was no difference between the groups in other outcomes at any other time, including radiographic and arthroscopic outcomes.

Conclusions

ACL reconstruction using autologous hamstring augmented with LARS resulted in significantly better clinical scores with a faster return to sports and comparative side-to-side differences in graft laxity by 6 and 12 months follow-up. Despite these findings, no statistically significant differences were seen among the three patient groups in terms of objective outcomes and clinical scores at the 18-month, 3-year and 8-year follow-ups. Additionally, a malpositioned femoral tunnel was associated with graft failure.

Current trends in graft choice for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction - part II: In-vivo kinematics, patient reported outcomes, re-rupture rates, strength recovery, return to sports and complications

Postoperative patient satisfaction after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R) is influenced mainly by the degree of pain, the need for reoperation, and functional performance in daily activities and sports. Graft choice has shown to have an influence on postoperative outcomes after ACL-R. While patient reported outcomes measurements do not differ between graft options, evidence shows that normal knee kinematics is not fully restored after ACL-R with an increase in postoperative anterior tibial translation (ATT). Postoperative graft rupture rates seem to favor bone-patella-tendon-bone (BPTB) and quadriceps tendon (QT) autografts over HT or allografts. While return to sports rates seem comparable between different graft types, postoperative extensor strength is reduced in patients with BPTB and QT whereas flexion strength is weakened in patients with HT. Postoperative donor site morbidity is highest in BPTB but comparable between HT and QT. With all graft options having advantages and drawbacks, graft choice must be individualized and chosen in accordance with the patient.

Mid-Term Outcomes of the All-Soft Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Are Noninferior to Hamstring Autograft in Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Comparison With Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To compare the 5-year clinical and functional outcomes of the soft-tissue quadriceps tendon (QT) with those of the hamstring tendon (HT) autograft.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using either soft-tissue QT or double-tendon HT autograft with at least 5 years of follow-up was conducted. Surgical technique included anteromedial portal creation for the femoral tunnel and transtibial technique for the tibia. Graft fixation was achieved with interference composite screws for the QT and combination of interference composite screw and suture button for the HT cohort. The 2 groups were compared for differences in outcomes, including International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, return to sport, and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 37 patients with QT autograft and 46 HT autografts were included in the study, with a mean follow up of 69.9 months and 70.9 months, respectively. The QT group demonstrated a larger graft size on average (9.64 mm vs 7.90 mm, P < .001). The IKDC and Lysholm scores were similar between the 2 groups at 2-years' postoperatively. At 5 years' postoperatively, the QT group demonstrated significantly greater IKDC (P = .018) and Lysholm (P = .007) scores. The cohorts demonstrated similar rates of achieving minimal clinically important difference thresholds at both 2 and 5 years' postoperatively. The 2 groups also demonstrated comparable rates of return to sport, time to return, and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the QT autograft demonstrated increased patient-reported outcome scores when compared with the HT at 5 years' postoperatively, there was no clinically significant difference between the cohorts at 2 or 5 years' postoperatively. The QT autograft is an effective alternative to HT autograft with noninferior results to the HT autograft at mid-term follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective comparison study.

Quadriceps tendon autograft is comparable to hamstring tendon and bone-patella-tendon-bone up to 2 years after isolated primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the functional and graft survivorship outcomes of the three most common autograft options for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)-hamstring tendon (HT), bone-patella-tendon-bone (BPTB), and quadriceps tendon (QT).

METHODS

Patients captured by the New Zealand ACL registry who underwent a primary ACLR from 2014 to 2020 were considered for the study. Patients with associated knee injury (including meniscus, chondral, osseous, and additional ligamentous injury) and previous knee surgery were excluded. Comparison was made between HT, BPTB, and QT autografts with respect to Marx and KOOS (Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) scores at minimum 2 years follow-up. In addition, graft survivorship was evaluated by comparing all-cause revision per 100 graft years and revision-free proportion at 2 years post-surgery.

RESULTS

2,582 patients (1,921 HT, 558 BPTB, 107 QT) were included in the study. Differences in adjusted functional outcomes between HT and BPTB were found at 12 months (mean Marx; HT 6.2; BPTB 7.1; P < 0.001) (mean KOOS Sport and Recreation; HT 75.1; BPTB 70.5; n.s.) and 24 months (mean KOOS Sports and Recreation; HT 79.2; BPTB 73.9; P < 0.001). QT was comparable to HT and BPTB in all functional scores at 12 months and 2 years. No statistically significant differences were found in revision rate between all three autograft groups up to 2 years post-surgery (revision rate per 100 graft years; HT 1.05; BPTB 0.80; QT 1.68; n.s. HT vs. BPTB; n.s. HT vs. QT; n.s. QT vs. BPTB).

CONCLUSIONS

QT was found to be comparable to both HT and BPTB in all functional scores and revision rates up to 2 years post-surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Less than 1% risk of donor-site quadriceps tendon rupture post-ACL reconstruction with quadriceps tendon autograft: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to develop a comprehensive complications profile for quadriceps tendon-autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (QT ACL-R).

METHODS

A traditional and grey literature search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA and R-AMSTAR guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, Web of Science, and many grey literature sources were searched from inception to May 29, 2022. All studies were searched and screened in duplicate with included studies being of all levels of evidence, reporting complications, and with patients of all ages undergoing primary ACL reconstruction with quadriceps tendon autograft in the last 15 years. Studies were excluded if they had cadaveric or animal subjects or were reviews. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using MINORS criteria for non-randomised studies and Cochrane's RoB 2.0 for randomised studies. Data were summarised with weighted event rates generated under a random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 55 studies (5315 reconstructions) were included: 32 used quadriceps tendon with bone block (B-QT), 19 used all-soft tissue quadriceps tendon (S-QT), and four did not report the QT graft subtype used. Included patients had an age range of 6.2-58 years and an average reported follow-up time of 28.1 months (range, 6-90 months) for non-randomised studies and 34.3 months (range, 0.233-120 months) for randomised studies. Pooled incidence rates for clinically relevant major complications included contralateral ACL injury at 6.0%, postoperative meniscal issues at 5.4%, cyclops lesions at 4.8%, graft failure at 4.1%, patellar fracture at 2.2%, hardware removal at 1.7%, infection at 1.5%, and donor-site quadriceps tendon rupture at 0.7%. Pooled incidence rates for clinically relevant minor complications included anterior knee pain at 9.7%, kneeling pain at 9.5%, sensation deficits at 4.4%, loss of extension at 4.2%, donor-site tendinopathy at 3.9%, cosmetic issues at 1.8%, and hematoma at 1.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

QT ACL-R resembles other graft types in its rates and types of postoperative complications. In this exploratory systematic review, no complications of QT ACL-R were found to be disproportionately represented in the literature. This graft type should remain an option with comparable complication rates to other graft choices.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

REGISTRATION

This study was preregistered under PROSPERO with preregistration code CRD42022302078.

GRAFTS FOR ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Objective

This study proposes to systematically review the literature and compare data on (1) function, (2) pain, (3) return to sport, and (4) complications after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with quadriceps tendon autograft (QT) and hamstring tendon autograft (HT).

Methods

In June 2021, a systematic review of the EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and LILACS databases was performed, based on PRISMA guidelines. The search strategy included the keywords: "Previous Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction," "ACL reconstruction," "quadriceps tendon autograft," "quadriceps graft," "Hamstring-Tendon Autografts." Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager software (RevMan Web).

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding function according to Lysholm score (MD 3.01; CI-0.30, 6.33, p = 0.08), the presence of pain (RR 0.89; CI-0.57, 1.39, p = 0.60), and re-rupture (RR 0.60; IC-0.19, 1.88, p = 0.38).

Conclusion

QT and HT autografts show comparatively good results in ACL reconstruction without significant differences regarding function, pain, and rupture after surgical intervention. Level of Evidence II, Systematic Review of Level II Studies.

All-Soft Tissue Quadriceps Tendon Autograft in Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Athletes: Comparison to Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Autograft With at Least a 2-Year Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is being performed at an increasing rate. Previous literature has suggested that autograft ACL reconstruction is a better option than allograft in revision surgery, although the optimal autograft choice remains unknown. The all-soft tissue quadriceps tendon (ASTQT) autograft has been found to be an effective option for primary ACL reconstruction. However, few studies have evaluated ASTQT autograft in revision ACL reconstruction.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ASTQT autograft in revision ACL reconstruction in athletes compared with bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) autograft. We hypothesized that the ASTQT autograft would lead to similar return to play, time to return to play, retear rate, and patient-reported outcomes compared with BTB autograft.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on all athletes undergoing revision ACL reconstruction between August 2013 and December 2019 at a single institution. Patients participating in high school or college athletics undergoing first-time revision with either ASTQT or BTB autograft with ≥2 years of follow-up were included. Demographic variables, complications, return to sports, and outcome scores including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm were collected and compared between the 2 cohorts.

RESULTS

A total of 58 revision ACL reconstructions were included, with 32 in the ASTQT cohort and 26 in the BTB cohort. Return to sports at the same level occurred in 62.5% of the ASTQT group and 53.8% of the BTB group. The ASTQT group returned to sports significantly faster than the BTB group (8.9 vs 10.3 months; P = .020). There was no difference in retear rates (3.1%, ASTQT; 7.7%, BTB) or other complications between the 2 groups. The IKDC scores were significantly higher at the 6- and 12-month follow-up for the ASTQT autograft group compared with the BTB group (6 months: ASTQT, 71.3; BTB, 61.7, P = .001; 12 months: ASTQT, 82.7; BTB, 78.6; P = .021). Lysholm scores were also greater in the ASTQT cohort at these time points (6 months: ASTQT, 75.1; BTB, 63.6; P < .001; 12 months: ASTQT, 82.0; BTB, 74.5; P < .001). However, IKDC and Lysholm scores were similar between both groups at final follow-up (IKDC: ASTQT, 82.9; BTB, 81.7; P = .344; Lysholm: ASTQT, 83.0; BTB, 81.0; P = .104) There was no significant clinical difference in the absolute difference in scores or rate of achieving clinical thresholds between the 2 cohorts.

CONCLUSION

ASTQT autograft for revision ACL in athletes has similar outcomes compared with BTB autograft. However, the ASTQT may possibly afford quicker return to sports and better early improvements in patient-reported outcomes that normalize by 1 year. The soft tissue quadriceps autograft should be considered a viable graft option in revision ACL reconstruction in athletes.

Quadriceps Tendon Versus Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Autograft choice in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) remains controversial, with increasing interest in the usage of quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft versus traditional hamstring tendon (HT) use. The current study undertakes an in-depth review and comparison of the clinical and functional outcomes of QT and HT autografts in ACLR.

HYPOTHESIS

The QT autograft is equivalent to the HT autograft and there will be little or no significant difference in the outcomes between these 2 autografts.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

The PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL databases were systematically searched from their inception until November 2020. All observational studies comparing ACLR QT and HT autografts were assessed for their methodological quality. Patient outcomes were compared according to patient-reported outcome measures (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Cincinnati, Lysholm, Tegner, and visual analog scale [VAS] measures), knee extensor and flexor torque limb symmetry indices (LSIs), hamstring to quadriceps (H/Q) ratios, functional hop capacity, knee laxity, ipsilateral graft failure, and contralateral injury.

RESULTS

A total of 20 observational studies comprising 28,621 patients (QT = 2550; HT = 26,071) were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. In comparison with patients who received an HT autograft, those who received a QT autograft had similar postoperative Lysholm (mean difference [MD], 0.67; P = .630), IKDC (MD, 0.48; P = .480), VAS pain (MD, 0.04; P = .710), and Cincinnati (MD, -0.85; P = .660) scores; LSI for knee flexor strength (MD, 6.06; P = .120); H/Q ratio (MD, 3.22; P = .160); hop test LSI (MD, -1.62; P = .230); pivot-shift test grade 0 (odds ratio [OR], 0.80; P = .180); Lachman test grade 0 (OR, 2.38; P = .320), side-to-side laxity (MD, 0.09; P = .650); incidence of graft failure (OR, 1.07; P = .830) or contralateral knee injury (OR, 1.22; P = .610); and Tegner scores (MD, 0.11; P = .060). HT autografts were associated with a higher (better) side-to-side LSI for knee extensor strength (MD, -6.31; P = .0002).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, the use of the QT autograft was equivalent to the HT autograft in ACLR, with comparable graft failure and clinical and functional outcomes observed. However, HT autografts were associated with better LSI knee extensor strength.

Quadriceps tendon autograft for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction show comparable clinical, functional, and patient-reported outcome measures, but lower donor-site morbidity compared with hamstring tendon autograft: A matched-pairs study with a mean follow-up of 6.5 ​years

OBJECTIVES

To compare clinical and functional outcomes of patients after primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using quadriceps tendon- (QT-A) and hamstring tendon (HT-A) autograft with a minimum follow-up (FU) of 5 years.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2014, all patients undergoing ACLR were recorded in a prospectively administered database. All patients with primary, isolated QT-A ACLR and without any concomitant injuries or high grade of osteoarthritis were extracted from the database and matched to patients treated with HT-A. Re-rupture rates, anterior-posterior (ap) knee laxity, single-leg hop test (SLHT) performance, distal thigh circumference (DTC) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were recorded. Between group comparisons were performed using chi-square-, independent-samples T- or Mann-Whitney-U tests.

RESULTS

45 QT-A patients were matched to 45 HT-A patients (n ​= ​90). The mean FU was 78.9 ​± ​13.6 months. 18 patients (20.0%/QT-A: N ​= ​8, 17.8%; HT-A: n ​= ​10, 22.2%; p ​= ​.60) sustained a graft rupture and 17 subjects (18.9%/QT-A: n ​= ​9, 20.0%; HT-A: n ​= ​8, 17.8%; p ​= ​.79) suffered a contralateral ACL injury. In high active patients (Tegner activity level ≥ 7) rerupture rates increased to 37.5% (HT-A) and 22.2% (QT-A; p ​= ​.32), respectively. Patients with graft failure did not differ between both groups in terms of mean age at surgery (QT-A: 26.5 ​± ​11.6 years, HT-A: 23.3 ​± ​9.5 years, p ​= ​.63) or graft thickness (mean graft square area: QT-A: 43.6 ​± ​4.7 mm², HT-A: 48.1 ​± ​7.9 mm², p ​= ​.27). No statistical between-group differences were found in ap knee laxity side-to-side (SSD) measurements (QT-A: 1.9 ​± ​1.2 ​mm, HT-A: 2.1 ​± ​1.5 ​mm; p ​= ​.60), subjective IKDC- (QT-A: 93.8 ​± ​6.8, HT-A: 91.2 ​± ​7.8, p ​= ​.17), Lysholm- (QT-A 91.9 ​± ​7.2, HT-A: 91.5 ​± ​9.7, p ​= ​.75) or any of the five subscales of the KOOS score (all p ​> ​.05). Furthermore, Tegner activity level (QT-A: 6(1.5), HT-A: 6(2), p ​= ​.62), VAS for pain (QT-A: 0.5 ​± ​0.9, HT-A: 0.6 ​± ​1.0, p ​= ​.64), Shelbourne-Trumper score (QT-A: 96.5 ​± ​5.6, HT-A: 95.2 ​± ​8.2, p ​= ​.50), Patient and Observer Scar -Assessment scale (POSAS) (QT-A: 9.4 ​± ​3.2, HT-A: 10.7 ​± ​4.9, p ​= ​.24), SSD-DTC (QT-A: 0.5 ​± ​0.5, HT.- A: 0.5 ​± ​0.6, p ​= ​.97), return to sports rates (QT-A: 82.1%, HT-A: 86.7%) and SLHT (QT -A: 95.9 ​± ​3.8%, HT-A: 93.7 ​± ​7.0%) did not differ between groups. Donor-site morbidity (HT-A n ​= ​14, 46.7%; QT-A n ​= ​3, 11.5%; p ​= ​.008) was statistically significantly lower in the QT-A group. Five patients (11.1%) of the HT-group and three patients (6.7%) in the QT-group required revision surgery (p ​= ​.29).

CONCLUSION

Patient-reported outcome measures, knee laxity, functional testing results and re-rupture rates are similar between patients treated with QT- and HT- autografts. However, patients with QT-autograft have a smaller tibial postoperative scar length and lower postoperative donor-site morbidity. There is a tendency towards higher graft rupture rates in highly active patients treated with HT autograft.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone and Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The best type of autograft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains debatable.

HYPOTHESIS

Compared with bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) and hamstring tendon (HT) autografts, the quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft has comparable graft survival as well as clinical function and pain outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library to July 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting comparisons of QT versus BPTB or HT autografts for ACL reconstruction were included. All analyses were stratified according to study design: RCTs or observational studies.

RESULTS

A total of 24 studies were included: 7 RCTs and 17 observational studies. The 7 RCTs included 388 patients, and the 17 observational studies included 19,196 patients. No significant differences in graft failure (P = .36), the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score (P = .39), or the side-to-side difference in stability (P = .60) were noted between QT and BPTB autografts. However, a significant reduction in donor site morbidity was noted in the QT group compared with the BPTB group (risk ratio [RR], 0.17 [95% CI, 0.09-0.33]; P < .001). No significant differences in graft failure (P = .57), the IKDC subjective score (P = .25), or the side-to-side stability difference (P = .98) were noted between QT and HT autografts. However, the QT autograft was associated with a significantly lower rate of donor site morbidity than the HT autograft (RR, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.39-0.93]; P = .02). A similar graft failure rate between the QT and control groups was observed after both early and late full weightbearing, after early and late full range of motion, and after using the QT autograft with a bone plug and all soft tissue QT grafts. However, a significantly lower rate of donor site morbidity was observed in the QT group compared with the control group after both early and late full weightbearing, after early and late full range of motion, and after using the QT autograft with a bone plug and all soft tissue QT grafts. No difference in effect estimates was seen between RCTs and observational studies.

CONCLUSION

The QT autograft had comparable graft survival, functional outcomes, and stability outcomes compared with BPTB and HT autografts. However, donor site morbidity was significantly lower with the QT autograft than with BPTB and HT autografts.

Quadriceps Tendon Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review of Postoperative Rehabilitation and Complication Profiles

PURPOSE

The purposes of this study are to explore current elements for postoperative rehabilitation protocol after quadriceps tendon-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (QT-ACLR), outline general timelines for progression of those elements, and explore their associated complication rates and profiles.

METHODS

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, 5 online databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PubMed) were searched and screened in duplicate using predetermined criteria for studies on the aforementioned patient population. Descriptive statistics are presented.

RESULTS

A total of 56 studies were included, with 31 studies using quadriceps tendon with bone block (B-QT) and 26 studies using all-soft tissue quadriceps tendon (S-QT). The majority of studies permitted full weightbearing and range of motion (ROM) within the first 12 postoperative weeks, and motion-controlled braces within 6 weeks. Isometric exercises were initiated within 1 week after surgery, closed-chain exercises within 12 weeks, and open-chain and sports-specific exercises within 36 weeks. Complication profiles were similar between graft types and included graft failure (1.2%-1.6%), cyclops syndrome (0.4%-0.7%), and persistent stiffness (0.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Current postoperative rehabilitation strategies in ACLR with QT offer a complication profile comparable to those reported with other graft types. Based on the included rehabilitation regimen, these protocols should focus on early ROM, specifically on achieving full extension, alongside isometric quadriceps strengthening. Progression to closed- and open-chain exercises should follow in a progressive manner, similar to existing protocols in ACLR. Adjuncts such as motion-controlled bracing and continuous passive motion machines may be used if graft protection is prioritized. This review highlights the need for comparison of defined protocols against one another in the setting of QT-ACLR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies.

No Difference in Complication Rates or Patient-Reported Outcomes Between Bone–Patella Tendon–Bone and Quadriceps Tendon Autograft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Purpose

To compare subjective outcomes and complications of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using either bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) or quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data identified consecutive cohorts of patients undergoing ACLR with either BPTB or QT autograft. Patients with less than 12-month follow-up and those undergoing concomitant osteotomies, cartilage restoration, and/or other ligament reconstruction procedures were excluded. Pre- and postsurgical patient-reported outcomes including International Knee Documentation Committee, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, Tegner, and Marx were compared between groups. Complications requiring reoperation were recorded.

Results

One hundred nineteen patients met inclusion criteria, including 39 QT autografts and 80 BPTB autografts. Demographic information was comparable between groups. Mean follow-up was comparable between groups (QT 22.4 ± 10.6 months vs BPTB 28.5 ± 18.5 months, P = .06). At minimum 12-month follow-up (range 12.0-100.8 months), patients in both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in International Knee Documentation Committee (QT 60.0%, P < .0001; BPTB 57.7%, P < .0001), all Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score domains, PROMIS Mobility T-Score (QT 27.2%, P = .0001; BPTB 23.2%, P < .0001), PROMIS Global Physical Health (QT 14.4%, P = .002; BPTB 13.4%, P = .001), PROMIS Physical Function (QT 29.6%, P < .0001; BPTB 37.1%, P < .0001), PROMIS Pain Interference (QT –16.5%, P < .0001; BPTB –20.8%, P < .0001), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, (QT 76.9%, P < .0001; BPTB 73.3%, P < .0001), Tegner (QT 92.9%, P = .0002; BPTB 101.4%, P < .0001), and Marx (QT –26.6%, P = .02; BPTB –32.0%, P = .0002) with no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups. Overall postoperative reoperation rate did not differ between groups (QT 12.8% vs BPTB 23.8%, P = .2). Revision ACL reconstruction rate did not differ between groups (QT 5.1% vs BPTB 7.5%, P = .6).

Conclusions

Patients undergoing autograft ACLR with either BPTB or QT demonstrated significant subjective improvements in patient-reported outcomes from preoperative values and no statistically significant differences in outcomes between the groups. Complication and revision ACLR rates were similar between the 2 groups.

Level of Evidence

III, retrospective cohort study.

A Comparison of Two-Year Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Clinical Outcomes Using All-Soft Tissue Quadriceps Tendon Autograft With Femoral/Tibial Cortical Suspensory Fixation Versus Tibial Interference Screw Fixation

PURPOSE

To contribute to future quadriceps tendon harvest and fixation guidelines in the setting of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by comparing 2-year patient-reported subjective knee outcome scores and incidence of graft-related complications between the shorter harvest all-inside tibial-femoral suspensory fixation (TFSF) approach versus the longer harvest standard tibial interference screw fixation technique.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with all soft tissue quadriceps tendon autograft from January 2017 to May 2019 were identified for inclusion. Patients were matched into 2 cohorts of 62 based on reconstruction technique. All patients completed baseline and minimum 2-year International Knee Documentation Committee, Tegner Activity Level, and Lysholm questionnaires and were queried regarding subsequent procedures and complications to the operative knee.

RESULTS

Average graft length for the all-inside TFSF was 69.55 (95% confidence interval 68.99-70.19) mm versus 79.27 (95% confidence interval 77.21-81.34) mm in the tibial screw fixation cohort (P = .00001). Two-year Lysholm scores were greater in the TFSF cohort (P = .04) but were not clinically significant. There was no difference in 2-year International Knee Documentation Committee (P = .09) or Tegner (P = .69) scores between cohorts, but more patients in the TFSF cohort returned to or exceeded their baseline activity level compared with the tibial screw fixation cohort (73% vs 61%, P = .25). Seven patients in the TFSF cohort versus 13 in the tibial screw fixation cohort reported anterior knee pain or kneeling difficulty (P = .22). There were no differences in reported complications.

CONCLUSIONS

All-inside soft-tissue quadriceps tendon autograft with TFSF resulted in clinically comparable subjective outcome scores at 2 years to tibial screw fixation. There were also no differences in complications or reports of anterior knee pain or kneeling difficulty. All-inside TFSF can be a viable alternative to tibial screw fixation for all-soft tissue quadriceps autograft.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, comparative therapeutic trial.

Clinical Outcomes of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Hamstring Tendons Autograft: A Retrospective Analysis

AIM

 The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine the clinical outcomes of anatomic single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a free quadriceps (QUADRI) tendon or a quadrupled hamstring (HAM) autograft.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The retrospective analysis (Level III, Therapeutic Study) included consecutive patients who underwent ACL reconstruction between April 2017 and April 2020 using either a free quadriceps tendon autograft or a hamstring tendon autograft. All patients underwent ACL reconstruction to treat isolated ACL injuries. The Tegner-Lysholm knee scoring system and the modified Cincinnati knee score were used for evaluation before surgery, and at six weeks, six months, and one-year follow-up time.

RESULTS

 In the present study, 35 people underwent quadriceps (QUADRI) grafts and 35 underwent hamstring (HAM) grafts. The demographic data for the groups were extremely comparable. The mean follow-up length for the HAM group was 11.96±0.28 months, while the QUADRI group had a mean follow-up period of 11.25±0.43 months. No significant variations in the Cincinnati score were observed between the two groups during any of the treatment's follow-up periods. Similarly, the Tegner Lysholm Score revealed no statistically significant differences between clinical outcomes in the HAM and QUADRI groups at all follow-up visits, except for the sixth week.

CONCLUSION

 Clinical outcomes are comparable in terms of stability and subjective assessments following ACL reconstruction using a free quadriceps or hamstring tendon autograft.

Comparing the Stiffness of Peroneus Longus Tendon Versus Hamstrings in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Biomechanical Study

Background: The use of autografts originating from either hamstring tendons or peroneus longus tendons is a surgical option in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Objectives: This research aimed to compare the tensile strength between the hamstring tendon and the peroneus longus tendon in ACL reconstruction. The hypothesis of this study was: Peroneus longus grafts have tensile strength equal to hamstring grafts based on living donor patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was a biomechanical study examining means and standard deviations (SD) by comparing the tensile strength of peroneus longus tendons and hamstring tendons when used as autograft donors in ACL reconstruction. Results: In this study, 51 patients with reconstructive ACL were enrolled. The mean diameter of the hamstring tendon was 7.86 with SD ± 0.69, while the mean diameter of peroneus longus tendon was 7.67 with SD ± 0.63. The mean diameter of the peroneus longus graft was not significantly different. The mean displacement on the hamstring tendon was 2.44 with SD ± 0.42, while the peroneus longus tendon was 2.06 with SD ± 0.14. The peroneus longus tendon had significantly more tensile strength compared to the hamstring tendon. Conclusions: Diameter of the peroneus longus graft was not significantly different from the hamstring graft. However, the peroneus longus graft had more tensile strength than the hamstring graft based on living donor patients.

Quadricep ACL Reconstruction Techniques and Outcomes: an Updated Scoping Review of the Quadricep Tendon

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date summary on the most recent literature examining techniques and outcomes in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using quadriceps tendon (QT) which will enable surgeons to make well informed evidence-based decisions when choosing a particular graft option and technique in ACL reconstruction.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several RCTs and systematic reviews have been published recently on this topic, and overall, there were no differences found between the QT, HT, and BPTB groups in patient-reported outcomes, stability testing, or graft re-rupture rates. In terms of strength testing, the QT group did have inferior knee extensor strength on isokinetic testing when compared to the HT group, whereas the HT group had inferior knee flexor strength compared to the QT group. No differences were found on strength testing between the QT and BPTB groups. Currently, two large RCTs, the Stability2 and SQuASH trials, are ongoing examining the effectiveness of the QT vs BPTB with or without LET and QT vs HT in the pediatric population which will help shed further light on the effectiveness of the QT as a graft choice in ACL reconstruction. The findings of this scoping review demonstrate that the QT is an excellent graft option in ACL reconstruction both in the primary and revision settings, among adult and pediatric populations. This review provides surgeons with further assurance when selecting QT autograft in ACL reconstruction.

MRI Signal Intensity of Quadriceps Tendon Autograft and Hamstring Tendon Autograft 1 Year After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Adolescent Athletes

BACKGROUND

Hamstring tendon autograft (HTA) is a common graft choice for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) in skeletally immature patients. Recently, the use of quadriceps tendon autograft (QTA) has shown superior preliminary outcomes in this population.

PURPOSE

To evaluate graft maturity by comparing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal intensity of HTA versus QTA used in primary ACLR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

All patients under the age of 18 years who underwent a primary ACLR by the senior authors using either an HTA or a QTA were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 70 skeletally immature patients (37 in the HTA group and 33 in the QTA group) with an available MRI at 6 and 12 months postoperatively were included. Signal intensity ratio (SIR) was measured on sagittal MRI by averaging the signal at 3 regions of interest along the ACL graft and dividing by the signal of the tibial footprint of the posterior cruciate ligament. Statistical analysis was performed to determine interrater reliability and differences between time points and groups.

RESULTS

Age, sex, and type of surgery were not associated with any differences in SIR. There was no significant difference in SIR between groups on the 6-month MRI. However, the SIR of the QTA group was significantly less than in the HTA group on the 12-month MRI (2.33 vs 2.72, respectively; P = .028). Within the HTA group, there was no significant difference in SIR at either MRI time point. In the QTA group, there was a significant decrease in SIR between the 6-month and 12-month postoperative MRI (2.70 vs 2.33, respectively; P = .045).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest improved graft maturation, remodeling, and structural integrity of the QTA compared with the HTA between 6 and 12 months postoperatively. This provides evidence that, at 1 year postoperatively, QTA may have a superior rate of incorporation and synovialization as compared with the HTA.

Bone Versus All Soft Tissue Quadriceps Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To examine existing literature on objective and patient-reported outcomes and complications after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with bone-quadriceps-tendon (B-QT) or soft tissue-quadriceps tendon (S-QT) to further clarify the role of graft type in primary ACLR.

METHODS

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, PubMed, Embase, and Medline were searched in October 2019 for English-language, human studies of all evidence levels on patients undergoing primary ACLR with B-QT or S-QT autograft.

RESULTS

24 of 1,381 studies satisfied criteria, with 20 using B-QT (1,534 patients, mean age 29.6 years [range 14 to 59], mean follow-up 41.2 months [range 12 to 120]) and 5 using S-QT (181 patients, mean age 32.4 years [range 15 to 58), mean follow-up 25.5 months [range 12 to 46]). International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were 67.3 to 89.5 with B-QT and 80.4 to 81.6 with S-QT. Lysholm scores were 85.7 to 97.4 with B-QT and 81.6 to 89.2 with S-QT. More B-QT patients demonstrated rotatory laxity on pivot shift compared with S-QT (0% to 39% versus 0%, respectively). The most common complication was graft rupture, and no differences were observed between graft choices (B-QT 0% to 9% versus S-QT 0% to 3.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

The main findings from this review report that more B-QT patients demonstrated postoperative rotatory instability than S-QT patients, and that there are no differences in graft rupture between the 2 graft choices. Although statistical conclusions may not be drawn because of heterogeneity in reporting, it appears that the B-QT group featured much wider major and minor complication profiles.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, systematic review of level I-IV studies.

Quadriceps tendon autograft for primary ACL reconstruction: a Bayesian network meta-analysis

Background

The purpose of the current study was to clarify the role of the quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft for primary ACL reconstruction. Thus, a Bayesian network meta-analysis comparing patients undergoing a primary ACL reconstruction with QT versus patellar tendon (PT) and hamstring tendon (HT) autografts was conducted.

Material and methods

This Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA extension statement for reporting systematic reviews incorporating network meta-analyses of health care interventions. In January 2020, the main databases were accessed. Articles comparing the outcomes of the QT autograft versus HT autograft and/or PT autograft for primary ACL reconstruction were included in the present study. The statistical analysis was performed with STATA Software/MP, through a Bayesian hierarchical random-effect model analysis.

Results

Data from a total of 2603 knees were analysed. The overall mean follow-up was 35.0 months. Among the different grafts were evidenced comparable values of IKDC, Tegner and Lysholm score. The QT autograft detected comparable rate of Lachman test > 3 mm, Pivot shift test > 3 m and instrumental laxity > 3 mm. The QT autograft showed a lower rate of autograft failure above all. The QT autograft detected the reduced rate of AKP than the PT.

Conclusion

Quadriceps tendon autograft may represent a feasible option for primary ACL reconstruction. These results must be interpret within the limitations of the present network meta-anlaysis.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Romanian International Knee Documentation Committee-subjective knee form

Aim

We aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the International Knee Documentation Committee—subjective knee form (IKDC) in Romanian.

Method

The original (US) IKDC—subjective knee form was translated according to recommended guidelines. Validity was tested using Spearmans’s correlation coefficient between score sand test-retest reproducibility. Reliability and internal consistency were determined using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

A total of 106 data sets were available for processing. The average age was 52 years and the male to female ratio was 40:66. Fifty-five subjects repeated the form after an average of 4 days. There were no floor or ceiling effects (range 3.4–74.7). There was a strong correlation between the first and repeated administration of the IKDC—subjective knee form (r = 0.816, n = 50) and moderate compared to Tegner-Lysholm knee rating scale (r = 0.506, n = 102), KOOSJR (Knee disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement, r =  − 0.622, n = 96), EuroqolEQ-5D-5L Index (r = 0.633, n = 100) and visual analogue scale VAS (r = 0.484, n = 99). Internal consistency was moderate with Cronbach’s alpha 0.611 (n = 102) and ICC 0.611 for average measures (95% CI 0.493–0.713).

Conclusion

The Romanian translation of the IKDC—subjective knee form is a valid, consistent and reproducible outcome measure in patients with knee pain and dysfunction.