Reinforced iliotibial tenodesis for chronic anterolateral instability of the knee: a 6-year follow-up.

Abstract

Reinforced iliotibial tenodesis is an extra-articular procedure to eliminate anterolateral instability of an anterior cruciate ligament-deficient knee. The procedure carries a low complication rate and offers an easy rehabilitation program. This study evaluated the use of reinforced iliotibial tenodesis in a select group of 52 patients with a mean age of 41 years (range: 38-50 years). Obese patients, professional athletes, and patients with more complex injuries (eg, concomitant posterior cruciate or medial collateral ligament injuries) were excluded. Results are encouraging after a mean follow-up of 6 years (range: 2-10 years). Although 24 patients had a positive anterior drawer or Lachman test, none had a positive pivot test. In addition, all patients reported giving way was eliminated after surgery.