"Trends and beliefs in ACL reconstruction surgery: Indian perspectives".

OBJECTIVES

The survey aimed to assess trends and beliefs in the management of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) amongst orthopaedic surgeons in India.

METHODS

A survey was created and distributed among the various orthopaedic surgeons from India. The questionnaire included brief details of surgeons and their experience, clinical assessment, management strategies and the rehabilitation protocol.

RESULTS

135 surgeons completed the survey. 35% of them were having experience of more than 12 years. A large number of surgeons were from government academic institutes (35.5%). The most common criteria for deciding about surgery was Clinical evaluation (94.8%). The most common graft choice was hamstring tendon (94%), and suspensory fixation on the femur side and interference screw on the tibial side (80%) is the most common fixation method. Almost two-thirds of surgeons in this survey use bracing to protect ACL graft in the initial phase.

CONCLUSION

We presented the preferences amongst the group of surgeons on the management of ACL injuries. Hamstring tendon graft remains the most preferred graft for ACL reconstruction. Further, the suspensory loop on the femoral side and interference screw on the tibial side are the preferred fixation method. This group of surgeons is conservative in terms of the timing of surgeries and post-operative bracing. Level of evidence Level V, Expert Opinion.