Abstract

An account is given of the successful preliminary results obtained in a series of 14 cases of surgical repair of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and disinsertions unaccompanied by substantial damage to the peripheral ligaments. Arthroscopy was first used to assess the type of ACL derangement and treat any meniscus lesions. Medial parapatellar miniarthrotomy was then employed to repair the ACL. This was always combined with tenodesis of the fascia lata with a screw and washer. Reinforcement was provided with a Leeds-Keio artificial ligament in one case. All the patients have gone back to sport, though 3 have switched to sports free from torsional stresses for fear of further injuries. Minireconstruction requires relatively minor incision of the joint capsule and can be performed quickly. It also proves clearly superior to classic arthrotomy in the rehabilitation stage. Verf.-Referat