Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by combined intra-articular (K. Lambert) and extra-articular iliotibial band tenodesis (MacIntosh; autologous grafts)

Objective: To assess the results of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in a group of sports players. Methods: A total of 153 sports players were reviewed 70 months (range 39-84 months) after they had anterior cruciate ligaments reconstruction by autologous patellar tendon graft (K. Lambert intraarticular reconstruction) combined with extra-articular tenodesis using iliotibial band (MacIntosh tenodesis). Results: We found all the patients were able to return to their normal active life and 131 atheletes were able to return to full sports activities, while 21 patients were not able to go back to their sports or had to modify their sports activities. The knees were assessed using Lysholm knee score, Shine grading system and clinical examination for anterior drawer, Lachman and pivot shift signs. The mean Lysholm knee score was 94.9 (range 71-100) while Shine grading for 64 knees was very good, for 68 knees good, and 21 knees fair. None of the patients had poor results. Conclusions: Depending on the type and deg ree of functional instability, we recommend anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by autologous tendon graft and in all cases, extra-articular procedures are required.