ACL-reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft is a standard procedure which can
be performed arthroscopically with a femoral half tunnel drilled from the joint or
using the two-tunnel technique with medial miniarthrotomy and additional femoral approach.
The arthroscopic procedure with single incision was hypothesized to improve proprioception
and to provide earlier rehabilitation. Twenty-nine patients with chronic ACL-deficiency
were included in the prospective study. Fifteen patients were operated endoscopically,
14 patients using the two-tunnel technique. Proprioception, Lysholm and Tegner scores
as well as stability (KT-1000) were assessed preoperatively, 3 and 6 months postoperatively
as well as after 3.9 ± 0.4 years. A significant deficit of proprioception was assessed
in both groups preoperatively. Six months postoperatively, both groups showed a restitution
of proprioception near full extension and full flexion of the knee. In the mid-range
position, the proprioception could not be restored. At the final examination after
3.9 years, the deficit documented in the mid-range position still persisted. There
were no differences in proprioception, clinical results and stability between the
arthroscopic and the open technique.
ACL-deficiency, ACL-reconstruction, two-tunnel technique, proprioception, arthroscopy.
