[Arthroscopic reconstruction using the Leeds-Keio ligament following anterior cruciate ligament lesions in 200 patients].

OBJECTIVE

To establish the results of arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with the Leeds-Keio ligament after a mean follow-up period of three years.

DESIGN

Descriptive follow-up study.

SETTING

Medisch Spectrum Twente in Enschede, the Netherlands.

METHOD

The arthroscopic reconstruction has been carried out since 1988. Early in 1990 the prospective study was started. The patients were evaluated preoperatively according to a protocol. Postoperatively, follow-up consultations took place 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery and subsequently once every year. The results concerned the first 204 patients (205 knees); 200 patients attended all follow-up consultations.

RESULTS

In the early postoperative phase there were few complications (2%). After a short period of hospitalisation (mean 3.5 days), most of the patients were able to handle full weight-bearing quite soon (average 4.8 weeks). A total of 98% returned to their original jobs after a mean of almost 12 weeks, while 94% participated again in sporting activities after a mean of more than 15 weeks. Rupture or elongation of the Leeds-Keio ligament occurred in 9% of the patients, on average 18 months after surgery (6-32), and a partial rupture in three cases (2%). In 62% the rupture or elongation occurred after a new evident trauma. Subjectively 85% of the patients no longer complained of instability, objectively stability was found in 90%. Functionally a marked improvement in comparison with the preoperative situation was achieved: 89% had a good to excellent functional score (Lysholm score). At the last follow-up 92% were satisfied with their knee functioning.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic reconstruction with the Leeds-Keio ligament leads to promising objective, subjective and functional results after a mean follow-up of three years, with few complications.