Potential Demerits in Arthroscopic Reconstruction of Anterior Cruciate Ligament using Endobuttons

Abstract

Rosenberg devised a method to use Endobuttons (Acufex Microsurgical Inc. Mansfield, MA) for femoral fixation in ACL reconstruction.
80 cases underwent arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using the Endobuttons from April 1997. There were 41 males and 39 females, whose ages ranged from 15 to 50 years (average 24.6 years). Our substitute was bone-patellar tendon-bone autogenous. Artificial ligament was anchored at the tibial side with a post screw.
Based on these experiences, we reviewed the demerits of this procedure. The clinical results showed that the Endobutton, used for ACL endoscopic fixation, flips outside the extensor mechanism or vastus lateralis rather than flipping directly outside the lateral femoral cortex.
We also found out one case in which the Endobutton dragged into the femoral tunnel during X-rays after operation.
The purpose of this study was to estimate the cause of the demerits and improve the method.