Editorial Commentary: Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tunnel Aperture Overlap Determines Need for 1- Versus 2-Stage Revision: Setting the Stage.

Abstract

Despite general agreement that tunnel widening ≥14 mm necessitates a 2-stage approach for revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, there is very little literature describing the effect of tunnel overlap between the previous tunnel and new tunnel with 1-stage ACL revisions. Tunnel overlap, particularly at the aperture, should be minimized without compromising anatomic tunnel location(s). This can often be accomplished with a 1-stage revision, but 2-stage revisions are sometimes required. Revision ACL reconstruction can be challenging and it is helpful for the surgeon to carefully plan preoperatively and have several options available to him/her intraoperatively, including the possibility of a 2-stage revision.