Description
Semitendinosus and gracilis hamstring tendons combined is the most commonly used graft configuration in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) worldwide. It`s harvest comes with certain disadvantages, such as flexion strength deficits that might delay the restoration of neuromuscular function. Resultantly, the “all-inside” technique has become increasingly popular, as it only uses a quadrupled semitendinosus graft mounted on adjustable cortical button fixation devices and retrograde graft sockets – sparing the gracilis. The technique is suggested to reduce flexion deficits postoperatively with overall similar clinical results as the traditional hamstring technique. Currently, there is a limited number of high-level studies comparing these techniques, and findings are inconsistent. The purpose of this prospective randomized controlled study was therefore to investigate possible differences between the “all-inside” and the traditional hamstring technique regarding 1) the International Knee Documentation Committee 2000 Subjective Knee Form (IKDC SF), 2) isokinetic hamstring strength and 3) KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side (STS) difference.
This study found no significant differences between the “all-inside” technique and the traditional technique regarding self-reported function, clinical examination, and functional tests two years after surgery. The “all-inside” technique yields equivalent results to the traditional hamstring technique and should be considered a reliable graft source for ACLR.
