[Posterior femoral cortex perforation unrecognised during arthroscopic LCA reconstructive surgery]

One of the most important technical demands in ACL surgery is good fixation of the graft. Integrity of the posterior femoral cortex is necessary for Interference screws fixation. The femoral tunnel, placed as posterior as possible, is also mandatory for good graft position and potentially leads to violation of the cortex. The divergence between screw and tunnel could result in perforation of the posterior wall. Without intraoperative x-ray it is difficult to be sure that position of the screw is correct, even with good graft tension. Still, the problem exists with absorbable screws. The aim of the study is to show results of 6 patients with this complication treated without revision of the femoral fixation with mean follow up of 1.5 year. Potential pitfall in ACL reconstruction is posterior cortex breakout and loss of fixation. If it is recognized during surgery changing the type of fixation can solve the problem, but if not, in the early phase of rehabilitation and weight bear, graft failure is feasible. The tibia tunnel angle and length, the footprint of femoral tunnel reamer and hyper flexion of the knee during screw insertion are methods for preventing the breakout of the posterior wall and screw-tunnel divergence. Modification of the early postoperative treatment and less aggressive rehabilitation protocol reduced the need for revision surgery. Even with best surgical technique, skill and experience this complication is possible to occur.