[Application of modified TransFix-II technique in arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using double tibial tunnel].

OBJECTIVE

To describe a modified TransFix- 11 technique for arthroscopic reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using double tibial tunnel.

METHODS

Twelve cases of ACL ruptures were reconstructed anatomically using modified TransFix- 11 technique. The double-looped semitendinosus and gracilis (DLSTG) tendon autograft was placed in a single femoral tunnel and double tibial tunnels to replace the anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) bundles of the original ACL. All the 12 patients underwent the same postoperative accelerated rehabilitation program.

RESULTS

Lachman test, anterior drawer test and pivot shift sign, and mcmurray test showed negative results in all cases. All patients regained normal range of motion of the knee and gait 4-6 weeks after operation, and 8 patients returned to the low risk sports at 10-12 weeks. One year after operation, 9 patients were followed: the International Knee Document Committee (IKDC) analysis revealed normal or near normal knees in 9 patients. The Tegner score revealed that 6 patients regained their pre-injury activity level. No patient had a significant femoral or tibial tunnels enlargement, as shown by follow-up CT scan.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction with double tibial tunnel using DLSTG and the technique of modified TransFix-II is reliable for replacement of the AM and PL bundles of the original ACL. The postoperative accelerated rehabilitation and the rapid restoration of the injured knee function can be expected.