Comparison of static and dynamic repairs for ligamentous instability of the knee

Twenty-three patients who have had a MacIntosh type of fasciodesis for anterolateral rotary instability of the knee have been studied. Overall 73% were improved by this procedure; of those whose only instability was when turning on the run, 90% improved. These results have been compared with a series of 51 patients who had a pes anserinus transfer for anteromedial instability (D'Arcy 1978). It is suggested that both static and dynamic reconstructions have a place in the management of knee instability resulting from anterior cruciate injury.