Femoral guide breakage during the anteromedial portal technique used for ACL reconstruction

Bailout Options for Intra-operative Implant and Instrumentation Related Incidents and Complications During Arthroscopic Knee Surgery-A Retrospective Study

Background

Arthroscopic knee procedures are one amongst the common surgical interventions for problems in the knee. It is technically more demanding than an open procedure and is associated with several potential complications. During arthroscopy procedures, several technical challenges may arise, and even experienced surgeons may encounter new issues. However, careful attention to the surgical technique can help prevent or resolve them.

Methodology

The study was conducted on all patients who underwent knee arthroscopy procedure during study period. We recorded details of the implants used and any unexpected situations related to them, as well as how they were managed. Instrumentation-related parameters such as screwdriver issues, radiofrequency ablator issues, scope damages, shaver complications, probe complications, and meniscus suture passing devices were also assessed.

Results

In total, there were 12 (3.73%) implant and instrument-related incidents and complications, of which 5 (1.55%) were implant-related and 7 (2.17%) were instrument related. Among the instrumentation-related incidents and complications, two (0.62%) were screwdriver breakage incidents, two (0.62%) were radiofrequency ablator-related incidents, one was arthroscopic probe (0.31%) related incident, one (0.31%) was meniscus suture passing device related complication and one (0.31%) was arthroscope related incident.

Conclusion

Surgeons must be ready to anticipate and effectively manage any technical difficulties that may arise during the procedure, maintaining composure in the face of unexpected challenges and guiding the team. In most cases, incidents can be addressed intra operatively and may not have long-term effects on patient outcomes. It is crucial to have multiple implant and instrument backup options available for successful surgery.

Drill bit failure and retrieval during arthroscopic ACL reconstruction

A case of broken drill bit during arthroscopic ACL reconstruction and the technique adopted to overcome this complication is presented. We also review the literature for intra-operative incidents and technical complications during arthroscopic ACL reconstruction and various precautions we should implement to prevent such technical pitfalls from coming into reality.

Biomechanical analysis on transverse tibial fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Antero-medial portal vs. transtibial techniques for drilling femoral tunnel in ACL reconstruction using 4-strand hamstring tendon: a cross-sectional study with 1-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Antero-medial portal (AMP) and trans-tibial (TT) techniques are the most widely used methods for drilling femoral tunnel in ACL reconstructions; yet, debate continues about the preferred method. This study seeks to compare these 2 techniques in patients with ACL tears.

MATERIAL/METHODS

In this comparative study, all cases of isolated ACL reconstruction using 4-strand hamstring tendon in 2006-2010 were evaluated for eligibility. Of 266 patients, 124 cases (60 TT and 64 AMP), with the mean age of 28.48±8.3, met the inclusion criteria. Both groups were compared in 8 follow-ups from the point of view of time of: return to post-surgical activities (including walking without crutches, normal life activity, jogging, and exercising), maximum range of passive movements, knee instability (Lachman test), functional condition (subjective IKDC and Lysholm knee scores), therapeutic outcomes, and patient's satisfaction with treatment (VAS).

RESULTS

AMP technique significantly accelerates patients' return to activity. AMP patients achieved full range of motion much sooner than TT cases (P<0.0001). After 1-year follow-up, S-IKDC scores were 94.8 ± 3.9 and 89.2 ± 4.1 and S-LKS scores were 96.1 ± 3 and 92.2 ± 4.1 for AMP and TT groups, respectively (P<0.0001). Knee stability was similar in both groups on Lachman test (P=0.25). AMP group patients (VAS mean score: 9.78 ± 0.4) had greater satisfaction compared to TT group patients (VAS mean score: 9.53 ± 0.5) (P=0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

AMP technique leads to reduction in time to return to routine activities, better therapeutic outcomes and higher satisfaction rates.

The "footprint" anterior cruciate ligament technique: an anatomic approach to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

To address the technical limitations of the conventional transtibial technique and the steep learning curve associated with double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, we have defined a novel "footprint" technique that reliably allows for anatomic single-bundle ACL reconstruction with minimal technical complications. The technique merges the principles of carefully defining the ACL footprint anatomy with the use of a modified anteromedial portal reaming technique with a flexible guidewire and reaming system. The procedure offers the advantages of an anatomic ACL reconstruction by use of anteromedial portal reaming techniques while avoiding the significant technical risks and pitfalls associated with double-bundle reconstruction. Our experience in over 100 footprint ACL reconstructions has been met with excellent clinical success with minimal intraoperative or postoperative complications. The purpose of this article is to outline the key steps of our defined procedure that are critical to achieving a successful outcome.