Anterior cruciate ligament radiofrequency thermal shrinkage: a short-term follow-up.

Abstract

To review the results of 34 patients who underwent radiofrequency thermal shrinkage (RFTS) for treatment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) laxity in the attenuated and partially torn ACL. Retrospective cross-sectional survey performed at least 6 months after treatment. Patients with recurrent instability after attenuation of ACL autografts and partially torn ACLs were treated with RFTS. Follow-up included subjective questionnaires (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Tegner, and Lysholm) and objective clinical tests (IKDC, KT-1000, pivot-shift, Lachman, single-leg hop). Mean follow-up was 21.4 months. Based on IKDC and subjective evaluation, 18 of 20 (90%) partially torn ACLs and 10 of 14 reconstructed ACLs (71%) treated with RTFS were judged to have good or excellent knee function (overall 82%). ACL laxity based on KT-1000 was less successful, with 15 of 20 (75%) partially torn ACLs and 8 of 12 (66%) reconstructed ACLs considered successful. With no major complications in this study, we conclude that RFTS for treatment of ACL laxity is a well-tolerated procedure with success rates around 71% to 90% in selected patients. RFTS may be offered as a less-extensive alternative to patients being considered for ACL reconstruction who have either attenuated or partially torn ligaments, especially in the athletically low-demand population. Level IV, case series.