The effect of initial graft tension after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized clinical trial with 36-month follow-up.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The initial graft tension applied at the time of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction alters joint contact and may influence cartilage health. The objective was to compare outcomes between 2 commonly used "laxity-based" initial graft tension protocols.

Hypotheses

(1) The high-tension group would have less knee laxity, improved clinical and patient-oriented outcomes, and less cartilage damage than would the low-tension group after 36 months of healing. (2) The outcomes of the high-tension group would be equivalent to those of a matched control group.

Study design

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

Ninety patients with isolated unilateral ACL injuries were randomized to undergo ACL reconstruction using 1 of 2 initial

SUBMITTER: Fleming BC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3534813 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature