Anatomic Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using the Anatomic Double-Bundle 2-in-1 Guide System

Abstract

Background: In double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, tunnel coalition may occur intraoperatively or during the postoperative course. Tibial tunnel coalition is more common compared with femoral tunnel coalition. Once tunnel coalition occurs on the tibial side, rotatory knee laxity may not be controlled as expected. We have developed a new device to avoid tibial tunnel coalition with consistency. The purpose of this video is to present the surgical technique for double-bundle ACL reconstruction using a new drill guide. Indications: The novel guide may be used in all cases with confirmed ACL tear in a physically active patient, identical to indications for current ACL reconstruction using the double-bundle technique. Technique Description: The hamstring tendon is harvested for the ACL grafts. Two guide pins for the anteromedial bundle and posterolateral bundle for the tibial tunnel are inserted through the Anatomic Double-Bundle 2-in-1 Guide System. Cannulated drills and dilators are used to create the tunnel to the final diameter. Next, femoral tunnels are created by the outside-in technique using the Anatomic Double-Bundle 2-in-1 Guide System. Grafts are inserted from the tibia and passed through the femur. The grafts are fixed with a post screw and/or interference screw. Results: Two weeks after surgery, no tibial or femoral coalition (0/20 cases) were confirmed and tibial bony bridge at the intraarticular surface was measured 2.7 ± 0.9 mm using computed tomography (CT). One year after surgery, tibial coalition was confirmed in 13.3% (2/15 cases), and femoral coalition in 6.7% (1/15 cases) on CT image mainly due to tunnel widening. The 2 cases with tibial coalition had tibial bony bridge of less than 2 mm on immediate postoperative CT. Discussion/Conclusion: Using the novel guide, 2 tibial tunnels were created easily and accurately compared with the conventional independent drilling technique. The 2 tunnels can also be created simultaneously with single placement of the guide. Two separate tunnels help maintain expected rotatory knee stability after double-bundle ACL reconstruction. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.