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In search of the perfect ACL brace

A H Alexander1

  • 1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Naval Medical Center, Oakland, California, USA.

American Journal of Orthopedics (Belle Mead, N.J.)
|April 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary

This study evaluated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) functional braces after reconstruction. The custom Townsend and off-the-shelf DonJoy Goldpoint braces were preferred for comfort and control.

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Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Biomechanical Engineering
  • Sports Medicine

Background:

  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears often require reconstruction, with functional braces sometimes used for post-operative support.
  • Subjective evaluation of brace performance during daily activities and running is crucial for patient compliance and functional recovery.
  • Vendor-supplied custom and off-the-shelf (OTS) braces were assessed to determine their efficacy and patient-perceived benefits.

Observation:

  • Braces were scored on comfort, convenience, control (resistance to anterior tibial translation), and cosmesis using a 1-3 scale, with comfort weighted double.
  • Custom braces: Townsend (14), Omni Scientific Elite (11), Innovation Sports C.Ti.2 (10), 3M Lenox Hill Spectralite (9), Orthotech Performer (9), DonJoy Defiance (9), Sutter Talon (9).
  • OTS braces: DonJoy Goldpoint (13), Orthotech Controller (11), Bledsoe Force III Light (11), 3M Lenox Hill OTS (10), Innovation Sports MVP (8), Bledsoe Force II (8), Bledsoe Force II Light (8), Omni Scientific Spectrum (7), Townsend OTS (7), DonJoy Playmaker (6).

Findings:

  • The custom Townsend brace and the OTS DonJoy Goldpoint brace received the highest overall subjective ratings.
  • Other satisfactory OTS braces included the Orthotech Controller and Bledsoe Force III Light, indicating a need for variety.
  • The study did not validate the necessity of functional bracing post-ACL reconstruction but provided subjective preferences if used.

Implications:

  • Orthopedic surgeons may need to offer a range of OTS braces to cater to diverse patient needs and preferences following ACL reconstruction.
  • Patient-reported outcomes, particularly comfort and perceived control, are key factors in functional brace selection and adherence.
  • Further objective studies are warranted to validate the biomechanical efficacy of different ACL functional braces.

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