[Proprioception after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. Endoscopic vs. 2 tunnel technique]

ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft is a standard procedure which can be performed arthroscopically with a femoral half tunnel drilled from the joint or using the two-tunnel technique with medial miniarthrotomy and additional femoral approach. The arthroscopic procedure with single incision was supposed to increase stability and to improve proprioception by earlier rehabilitation. 29 patients with ACL deficiency were included in the study. 15 patients were treated endoscopically, 14 patients by using the two-tunnel technique. Proprioception, Lysholm and Tegner scores as well as stability (KT-1000) were assessed preoperatively, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. A deficit of proprioception was assessed in either group preoperatively, which could be improved after 3 months only in the arthroscopic group. 6 months postoperatively, either group showed a restitution of proprioception near full extension and full flexion of the knee. In the mid range position, the proprioception could not be restored. There were no differences in stability and the Lysholm and Tegner scores between the groups after 6 months postoperatively. The comparison between the patients with acute and chronic instability shows a better proprioception in the acute group in the mid range position 6 months after the reconstruction.