Functional outcomes following contralateral hamstring tendon autografts with extra-articular tenodesis for ACL revision surgery

BACKGROUND: Lateral extra-articular procedure in association with ACL reconstruction can act as a protection against undesired load occurring during early postoperative phases, thus making it useful in revision ACL surgery. The purpose of the present study is to retrospectively review the clinical outcome of contralateral hamstring tendon autografts with extra-articular tenodesis for ACL revision surgery, specifically with regard to patient satisfaction, return to preinjury activity level, and postoperative functional outcomes. The hypothesis was that this combined procedure leads to improved stability and functional outcome in patients affected by ACL re-tear. METHODS: Twelve patients who underwent ACL revision surgery using contralateral hamstring tendon autografts and extra-articular tenodesis were retrospectively reviewed at an average follow-up of 4.1 years (range, 2 to 7 years). All the operations were performed by a single senior surgeon. The Tegner, Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form were used. Objective evaluation included range of motion, Lachmann test, pivot-shift test and KT-1000 instrumented laxity testing. Wilcoxon test was utilized to compare the preoperative and follow-up status. Differences with a P value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Lysholm knee score as well as IKDC score significantly improved at follow-up (P<0.05). No significant differences concerning Tegner activity level were reported (P=0.9). In terms of knee stability, anterior tibial translation according to manual laxity testing and as measured with KT-1000 arthrometer significantly improved after surgery (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present study shows favorable results for revision ACL reconstruction with contralateral hamstrings and associated extra-articular tenodesis concerning subjective knee function and knee stability as well as ability to resume sport activities.