Functional outcomes of primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with tibialis anterior allograft

Abstract

Objectives: Allografts have potential advantages in primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), including the absence of donor site morbidity, shorter operative times, improved cosmesis, and easier rehabilitation. There is limited and conflicting outcome data for ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients underwent ACLR using with tibialis anterior allograft between 2005 and 2013. Totally 12 patients who were performed suspensory fixation technique were included in this study (range: 25-43 years). Exclusion criteria included double bundle, bone tendon bone technique and revision surgery. Clinical outcomes were measured by subject part of International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm scores. Results: A significant increase was reported in all the clinical scores. In particular, the IKDC-subjective score increased from a basal value of 45.5±12.7 to 84.3±5.50 at the 12 months’ evaluation (p<0.05). The Lysholm score revealed a significant improvement from 49.7±14.2 to 83.5±20.5 at the 12 months’ evaluation (p<0.05). Conclusion: ACLR with tibialis anterior allograft is an effective treatment for correcting loss of function and increasing quality of life.