Arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with the LARS artificial ligament: thirty-six to fifty-two months follow-up study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the operating methods and fundamental clinical effects of the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with the Ligament Advancement Reinforcement System (LARS) artificial ligaments using an arthroscopy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty-three patients with ACL rupture who were treated using LARS artificial ligaments were enrolled in this retrospective study. The mean age at the time of reconstruction was 31.2 y (range, 22-51y). Average time from injury to surgery was 18 d (range, 5-51 d). Average follow-up period was 45 mo (range 36-52 months). Follow-up examinations included the Lysholm Knee Score and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score.

RESULTS: The average Lysholm Knee Score was 53.1±5.8 preoperatively (range, 47-76) versus 93.2±3.4 three years after operation (range, 80-100). Fifty-one of 53 patents (96.2%) showed good or excellent results at final assessment. The final IKDC score 3 years after operation were normal in 28 patients (52.8%), nearly normal in 23 patients (43.4%), and abnormal in 2 patients (3.8%). No postoperative complications, such as infection, ligament rupture, or ligament cinch occurred.

CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that LARS artificial ligament appears to be an effective graft for ACL reconstruction leading to good knee function and stability. Long-term follow-up should be performed to confirm the durable stability of the knee and the tolerance of the knee to the LARS artificial ligament.