Comparative Analysis of Arthroscopic Tight Rope ACL Reconstruction Using four Strand Isolated Semitendinosus Graft and Quadrupled Combined Hamstring Graft

Background: Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using hamstring autograft is a quite a popular surgical procedure. But there is a conflict regarding the use of isolated semitendinosus graft or a combined hamstring graft. We did a comparative analysis of the functional outcome after ACL reconstruction performed with four strand semitendinosus graft and a combined hamstring graft over tightrope.Methods: Two groups of ۳۰ patients each with similar demographic profiles, presenting with symptoms of instability after chronic ACL tear were included. A standard single bundle arthroscopic ACL reconstruction was performed by using four-strand semitendinosus graft in Group A and combined hamstring graft in Group B patients. Clinical and functional outcome analysis was done using quantitative anterior tibial translation measurement and Lysholm score. Results: The mean age of subjects in group A was ۲۹ years and in Group B was ۲۸ years. The semitendinosus graft length was insufficient in ۱۳.۳۳% cases in group A. The improvement in Lysholm score and the decrease in the tibial translation were comparable in both the groups at one year of follow-up. No added comorbidities were noted in additional removal of gracilis tendon in group B patients.Conclusion: Isolated semitendinosus four-strand autograft can be used for arthroscopic single bundle ACL reconstruction when adequate graft length is obtained. However, one should not be hesitant in additional removal of gracilis tendon when needed. In terms of functional outcome and patient satisfaction, both the graft configurations stand the same.Level of evidence: I

Keywords:

Combined Hamstring graft , Four-strand semitendinosus , Single bundle ACL reconstruction