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Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL reco) is a very good operation but its not perfect. There are 2 common types of graft used but neither are perfect.
The standard technique using hamstring graft utilises 2 tendons, the Semitendinosis and Gracilis each folded over (doubled up). This can lead to some hamstring pain in the rehabilitation period, mild hamstring weakness and the graft tends to stretch slightly over time.
The alternative is to use a patella tendon graft which is very strong but can cause more anterior knee pain, a scar that can be painful to kneel on and may be associated with a slightly increased risk of osteoarthritis long term.
The short graft ACL technique uses only one hamstring tendon (the semitendonosis) which is quadrupled to give a thicker and stronger graft than a standard hamstring graft technique. This technique also pre stretches the graft so that it doesn’t stretch out over time like a standard graft.
The TLS short graft technique is also an all inside technique which means there is no large hole drilled in the cortex of the tibia to pull the graft through. This may decrease the amount of pain patients feel after their operation.
This operation does take 10 minuted longer than many other techniques but I think the extra time is well worth the potential advantages that it brings.
For more information n this technique please look at www.fhorthopedics.com or for information on ACL reconstruction in general www.melbournehipandknee.com.au.
