Iliotibial band for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a new technique for graft augmentation, placement and fixation

A simple surgical technique to reconstruct the ACL deficient knee was described. A strip of ITB and fascia lata augmented by degradable suture materials was used as the substitute. The strip was introduced into the isometric area of the original ACL attachment through a drill hole made in the lateral femoral condyle. Drilling was guided by the anatomical landmarks without using special device. The graft was then rigidly fixed to the tibia by intraosseous compression, the method previously described by the author. Clinical results were assessed by both subjective symptoms and physical examinations. In 33 patients followed-up for an average of 34.1 months, thirty of them who were chronic cases had few or no symptoms concerning pain, swelling, laxity and stiffness at the last visit. Lachman test, anterior drawer and Slocum test were negative in 87.92, 81.87 and 100 per cent respectively. This technique requires only basic instruments and skill, and is thus generalizable to institutions having limited surgical facilities.