Single- versus double-bundle ACL reconstruction: is there any difference in stability and function at 3-year...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a common surgical procedure.
• The debate continues regarding the superiority of double-bundle versus single-bundle techniques for ACLR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare postoperative stability, range of motion (ROM), and functional outcomes between single-bundle and double-bundle ACLR using semitendinosus tendon.
• To determine if double-bundle ACLR offers advantages over single-bundle ACLR in patient recovery and knee function.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 60 patients with isolated ACL injuries.
• 30 patients underwent single-bundle ACLR, and 30 underwent double-bundle ACLR.
• Assessed stability (Rolimeter, pivot shift test), ROM, and function (IKDC, Noyes, Lysholm, Marx, Tegner scores) at a minimum 36-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in anteroposterior laxity or rotational stability between the two groups at 3 years.
• Similar range of motion was observed, though double-bundle required more physical therapy for full ROM.
• Identical functional scores (IKDC, Noyes, Lysholm, Marx, Tegner) were reported for both single-bundle and double-bundle ACLR.

Conclusions:

• Double-bundle ACLR does not provide superior functional or stability benefits compared to single-bundle ACLR.
• The choice between single-bundle and double-bundle ACLR may not significantly impact long-term patient outcomes.