Revision ACL Reconstruction with Hamstring Autograft from the Contralateral Leg With and Without Internal Brace: A Comparative Study
Authors: Dimitrios Tsoukas, Simos Christos
Journal: Surgical Technology International
Publication year: 2025
DOI: 10.52198/25.sti.45.os1866
IBISG Summary
This comparative clinical study evaluated revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a contralateral hamstring autograft with or without internal brace augmentation. Thirty patients were randomised equally between the two treatments and assessed over 24 months using functional scores, pain, knee laxity, MRI evidence of graft maturation and graft re-rupture.
Key Findings
Patients receiving internal brace augmentation achieved significantly better IKDC, Lysholm and Tegner scores, reported less pain and demonstrated reduced anterior knee laxity at 24 months. MRI assessment indicated faster graft maturation in the internally braced group. Graft re-rupture occurred in one of 15 patients with internal bracing compared with four of 15 patients receiving reconstruction alone.
Why This Research Matters
Revision ACL reconstruction carries a greater risk of instability and graft failure than primary reconstruction. These findings suggest that internal brace augmentation may provide additional graft protection, improve knee stability and support functional recovery in revision surgery. However, the small sample and 24-month follow-up mean that larger, longer-term randomised studies are required to confirm the results.