Stalked patellar tendon graft in reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament.

A careful description of the surgical technique in reconstruction of the anterior cruciate using the medial third of the patellar tendon is given. It is pointed out that it is a technical advantage if the drill hole for the patellar tendon enters the knee joint into or just behind the remnants of the normal anterior cruciate ligament. It is also emphasized how important it is that the ligament is anchored to its normal anatomic insertion far back posterolaterally. With the technique suggested about 90% stable knees can be expected at an early follow up. The most common complication was an extension lag and recommendations for how this should be treated are given.