How to Achieve an Accurate Anatomical Femoral Tunnel Technique in ACL Reconstruction in the Early Years of Your Consultancy? Femoral Offset Aimer Technique: Consistent and Reproducible Technique

J Knee Surg. 2020 Dec;33(12):1201-1205. doi: 10.1055/s-0039-1692993. Epub 2019 Aug 2.

Abstract

Femoral tunnel malposition is the most common reason for failure of primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. There are several methods to identify the anatomical location of femoral footprint. Femoral offset aimer technique is one such technique which is easy to use and reliable. It is an ideal technique for junior and inexperienced surgeons to recreate the femoral tunnel in its anatomical footprint. The senior author (P.E.) has been using this technique for 30 consecutive cases in his first year of independent practice during his consultancy without any major intraoperative complications. The author describes this technique in this article with tips and tricks which will especially guide the junior and inexperienced surgeons to avoid running into intraoperative problems while drilling the femoral tunnel.

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries / surgery*
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / adverse effects*
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / methods*
  • Arthroscopy / adverse effects
  • Arthroscopy / methods
  • Femur / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Complications / etiology
  • Intraoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Male
  • Tibia / surgery