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Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a changing paradigm

  • Knee
  • Published:
Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy Aims and scope

Abstract

Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee is potentially devastating for the patient and can result in both acute and long-term clinical problems. Consequently, the ACL has always been and continues to be of great interest to orthopaedic scientists and clinicians worldwide. Major advancements in ACL surgery have been made in the past few years. ACL reconstruction has shifted from an open to arthroscopic procedure, in which a two- and later one-incision technique was applied. Studies have found that traditional, transtibial arthroscopic single-bundle reconstruction does not fully restore rotational stability of the knee joint, and as such, a more anatomic approach to ACL reconstruction has emerged. The goal of anatomic ACL reconstruction is to replicate the knee’s normal anatomy and restore its normal kinematics, all while protecting long-term knee health. This manuscript describes the research that has changed the paradigm of ACL reconstruction from traditional techniques to present day anatomic and individualized concepts.

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Acknowledgments

The department of Orthopaedic Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh receives funding from Smith and Nephew to support research related to reconstruction of the ACL.

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Correspondence to Freddie H. Fu.

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Fu, F.H., van Eck, C.F., Tashman, S. et al. Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a changing paradigm. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 23, 640–648 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-014-3209-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-014-3209-9

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