Comparison of Modified Transtibial and Anteromedial Portal Techniques in Anatomic Single-Bundle ACL Reconstruction.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical, 3-dimensional computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and second-look arthroscopic findings of the modified transtibial technique with those of the anteromedial portal technique in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (SB-ACLR). Among patients who underwent SB-ACLR from February 2012 to May 2014, 95 patients with a minimum of 36 months of follow-up were included in this retrospective study. Forty-five patients underwent a reconstruction using the modified transtibial technique. Fifty patients underwent a reconstruction using the anteromedial portal technique. Clinical scores and stabilities were recorded preoperatively and at final follow-up. All patients had postoperative computed tomography and the computed tomography parameters, including tunnel position and graft obliquity, evaluated. Additionally, postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy were performed. On the basis of the functional and stability outcomes, all of the patients showed significant improvement after SB-ACLR, with no significant differences existing between the 2 groups (P>.05). Tunnel position and obliquity were not significantly different between the 2 groups (P>.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups regarding the magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy findings (P>.05). The tunnel characteristics and clinical results of the 2 techniques were comparable. Given the several advantages of the modified transtibial technique, including its simplicity and patients' greater activity level, it is suitable for anatomic SB-ACLR. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(2):83-89.].