ACL autograft reconstruction revisions with tendon allografts: Possibilities and outcomes. A one-year follow-up of 39 patients

Abstract

Background: The number of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions is steadily rising in France. Re-tear rates of up to 25% have been reported and graft selection remains a notable challenge. Allografts, although rarely used in France, can be a viable option. The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the benefits of ACL revision with allografts, by determining subjective scores (IKDC score and KOOS), measuring laxity, and evaluating the rate of return to sports.

Hypothesis: Tendon allografts are reliable and can be used in France for ACL reconstruction revision.

Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective study including 39 patients managed in two centres between 2004 and 2016 and followed up for at least a year. Patients were eligible if they had undergone tendon allograft reconstruction for ACL revision with or without rupture of a peripheral plane. We excluded underage patients and patients with a history of ligament injury in the contralateral knee. Mean age was 32 years. The allografts were extensor mechanisms, anterior or posterior tibial tendons, fascia lata tendons, hamstring tendons, and a short fibular tendon. They were obtained from French and Belgian tissue banks. They were used for the reconstruction of 39 ACLs and 11 collateral ligaments. The IKDC score and KOOS were determined in all patients. Laximetry was performed in 31 patients by an independent examiner.

Results: Mean follow-up was 3.5 years. Arthroscopic release was required in one patient, and 2 patients experienced re-tears. No deep surgical site infections were recorded. The subjective IKDC score and the KOOS improved significantly, from 53.6 to 80.7 and from 60.4 to 83.2, respectively. Mean postoperative differential laxity was 1.4mm (KT 1000) and 1.6mm (GNRB®). Of the 3 patients who were professional athletes, 2 had returned to sports at the same level one year later, and among the recreational athletes, 54% had resumed their previous sporting activities.

Conclusion: In the setting of complex ligament reconstruction revision, tendon allografts are reliable and can be used in France.

Level of evidence: IV; retrospective cohort study.

Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction; Follow-up study; Knee injuries; Sports injuries; Tendon allografts.