Loop changes after knee flexion-extension movement in a cadaveric anterior cruciate reconstruction model

Recently, adjustable-loop devices (ALDs) have been widely used, and their reliability has always been the focus of attention. This study compared loop length changes under pull stress caused by flexion and extension of the cadaver knee between ALDs and fixed-loop devices (FLDs) in terms of femoral fixation after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

ACL reconstruction in cadaveric knee joints was performed under arthroscopy with femoral suspension devices and tibial fixation by tying sutures on staples. The knee joint was repeatedly flexed and extended 30 times after fixation. According to the femoral fixation device used (Endobutton or Ultrabutton), the knee joints were divided into two groups: the ALD group (12 specimens) and the FLD group (ten specimens). The length of the loop before and after fixation was measured, and the loop length of the ALD group was re-measured 1 day after reconstruction.

There was no significant difference in the length of the loop between the two groups (t = 0.579, P = 0.569). One day later, the loop length of the ALDs retracted by 0.29 ± 0.33 (0-1.1) mm, and there was no retraction in three specimens.

There was no significant difference in the loop length under flexion and extension stress after ACL reconstruction between ALDs and FLDs.