Results of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using full-thickness peroneus longus tendon autograft

Background
There is no consensus on the most suitable graft to replace the injured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). A variety of grafts, such as the hamstring tendon, bone–patellar tendon–bone, and peroneus longus tendon (PLT), are available.
Aim
This study aimed to assess the practical results of ACL restoration with a PLT graft in a single bundle.
Patients and methods
This prospective study included 21 patients, ranging in age from 20 to 45 years, of both sexes, who had ACL tears identified by MRI with injuries that occurred between 4 weeks and 6 months ago. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) questionnaires were used to assess all patients.
Results
There is no difference in postoperative functional results (IKDC) based on age and BMI. Age, sex, activity level, and smoking status showed no significant relationship with postoperative IKDC scores. There was no significant correlation between the injured side, trauma mode, meniscal injury association, preoperative time, or postoperative IKDC scores and complications. A significant increase (P<0.001) was noted when comparing the IKDC scores before and after the operation. Patients’ scores on the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society scale did not change significantly between the preoperative and postoperative periods.
Conclusions
PLT grafts have a large diameter, minimal donor site morbidity, and excellent clinical outcomes when used for reconstructing ACL. ACL reconstruction using a PLT graft led to improved knee function, as indicated by increased IKDC scores. There was a distinction between right-sided and left-sided knee injuries, with better outcomes observed in the latter group. The presence of a meniscal injury had a negative impact on postoperative scores. Graft dimensions were appropriate, and complications were relatively low.