Multiple looping technique for tibial fixation in posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using free tendon Achilles allograft

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate case series outcomes of a new tibial fixation technique using a free tendon graft during posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction which is less affected by tibial metaphysis bone density. Thirty-two subjects underwent single-bundle PCL reconstruction using a free tendon Achilles allograft. The graft was looped to be double stranded. The free ends of the graft were fixed to the femoral side using suture washer, and the looped end was fixed to the tibial side using the multiple looping technique. Range of motion of the knee and side-to-side difference were assessed at the last follow-up. The Lysholm Knee score was evaluated preoperatively and at the last follow-up. The Tegner Activity Scale score was evaluated before injury and at the last follow-up. Twenty-eight subjects were followed up for at least 18 months. Mean follow-up was 27.7 +/- 4.8 months. All subjects showed normal range of motion at the last follow-up. The mean side-to-side difference was 10.4 +/- 2.8 mm preoperatively and 2.3 +/- 1.8 mm at the last follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean Lysholm Knee score was 58 +/- 9 preoperatively and 91 +/- 5 at the last follow-up (p < 0.001). The median Tegner Activity Scale score was 7 (range 5-9) before injury and 6 (range 4-8) at the last follow-up (p = 0.001). The multiple looping technique for tibial fixation resulted in satisfactory outcomes from single-bundle PCL reconstruction without any significant complications. Therapeutic case series, Level IV.