[Dynamic intraligamentary stabilization of the anterior cruciate ligament. Operative technique and short-term clinical results].

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of tears in the anterior cruciate ligament with a tendon graft is the current gold standard.

OBJECTIVES

Dynamic intraligamentary stabilization is a new technique for preservation of the anterior cruciate ligament.

METHODS

This article describes the indications, operative technique, rehabilitation and preliminary results after dynamic intraligamentary stabilization for acute anterior cruciate ligament ruptures.

RESULTS

A total of 24 women and 31 men with an acute anterior cruciate ligament tear were included in a prospective clinical trial. Of the patients 26 had already been followed-up for 12 months and satisfying values for the Lysholm, Tegner and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) outcome scores were achieved. High subjective patient satisfaction was also achieved. The Lachman test showed a mean anterior translation difference to the healthy side of 1.7 mm.

CONCLUSION

Dynamic intraligamentary stabilization in combination with microfracturing of the notch can provide biomechanical and biological conditions for self-healing of the anterior cruciate ligament. Further clinical and biomechanical research is needed to identify appropriate patients and rupture types suitable for this new technique.