Editorial Commentary: The Epic Saga of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Complex of the Knee-Loyal Sidekick May Provide Protection Without Constraint.

Abstract

There is a vast amount of conflicting literature evaluating the anatomic, biomechanical, and clinical outcomes of combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and anterolateral complex injury. This has become-and remains-one of the most controversial topics in the ACL-deficient knee literature, thus requiring further inquiry with clear and systematic approaches to biomechanical analysis, indications, graft selection, surgical technique, and clinical outcome evaluation. The considerable variety of procedures to address anterolateral rotatory instability in the setting of ACL deficiency described in the literature strongly suggests the lack of a reliable and reproducible technique. Anterolateral complex reconstruction may provide protection to the ACL-reconstructed knee without detrimental overconstraint.