Computer-assisted anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction: the US perspective

Computer-assisted anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the United States has been used to help improve clinical outcomes and investigate tunnel placement and kinematic activity. Computer-assisted techniques were developed to improve accuracy of tunnel placement, because of concerns about the accuracy of manual tunnel placement causing revisions. Several authors have demonstrated improved tunnel location with computer assistance, although others have demonstrated little or no difference. More recently, American investigators have used computer assistance to evaluate the position and biomechanical behavior and kinematics of theoretical tunnel placement and also to assess in vitro and in vivo knee stability following ligament reconstruction. Computer assistance of anterior ligament reconstruction has demonstrated its value as a research and clinical tool in the United States.