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Purpose Multiple techniques have been described in the literature for reconstruction of the medial collateral ligament. The purpose of this study is to describe functional outcome, range of motion, and knee stability following anatomic MCL reconstruction utilizing an Achilles tendon bone allograft after multiligament knee injury. Methods A comprehensive search of a single-hospital multiligament knee injury (MLKI) procedural database was conducted to identify all patients that underwent reconstruction of the MCL utilizing an Achilles tendon bone allograft and with 2-year clinical follow-up. Medical charts were retrospectively reviewed to determine each patient’s knee dislocation (KD) grade, final range of motion, stability on clinical examination, and the incidence of complications and reoperations. KOOS, IKDC, and Marx scores were also collected. Results Thirty-two knees in 32 patients (21 males and 11 females) with a mean age of 30 years (range 15–51) were followed for an average of 40 months (range 28–87 months) following MCL reconstruction with Achilles tendon bone allograft. For patients with multiligament knee injuries, there were 14 KD-I (11 ACL/MCL; 3 MCL/PCL; 1 MCL/ACL/LCL; 1 MCL/PCL/LCL), 12 KD 3-M, and 3 KD-IV. One patient underwent isolated revision MCL reconstruction. At final follow-up, clinically significant valgus laxity was observed in only 1 patient (3%). All patients were able to achieve full extension of the knee and the average flexion was 121.1 ± 19.6. The average IKDC score was 67.6 ± 19.9 (range 27.7–98.9), the average KOOS score 77.1 ± 16.8 (range 31–100). The average Marx score was 4.9 (range 0–16, SD 5.2). Thirty-one of 32 (96%) patients reported being satisfied with results of the surgery. Knee dislocation grades were significantly correlated with post-operative outcome measures. Conclusion In a series utilizing a modified Marx Achilles tendon, MCL reconstruction in the setting of MLKI demonstrated satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes, as well as patient satisfaction at short- to mid-term follow-up. Furthermore, knee dislocation grades were demonstrated to correlate with post-operative IKDC, KOOS, and Marx scores. Level of evidence Type IV.

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes, failure rates, and complications associated with a second revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using an Achilles tendon allograft in a mono-loop fashion, which allows simultaneous reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and the anterolateral ligament. The hypothesis was that this combined technique is safe and leads to satisfactory clinical outcomes at mid-term follow-up. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 patients who underwent a second revision ACL reconstruction between January 2018 and December 2022. All patients received an Achilles tendon allograft with a bone plug, used in a mono-loop technique to reconstruct both ACL and ALL. Exclusion criteria included multi-ligament injuries, posterior tibial slope > 12°, or follow-up shorter than 24 months. Clinical evaluation included pre- and postoperative scores: Tegner, subjective IKDC, Lysholm, and KOOS, as well as physical examination and Rolimeter testing. Mean follow-up was 32.2 months. Results The mean patient age was 36.8 ± 6.3 years. All clinical scores improved postoperatively: Tegner (from 64.3 to 87), subjective IKDC (55.1 to 64.4), Lysholm (58.2 to 76.9), and KOOS (59.7 to 70.1). Anteroposterior laxity decreased from 7.2 ± 2.1 mm preoperatively to 1.2 ± 1.3 mm postoperatively. A total of 55% of patients returned to their desired sports level, 25% to a lower level, and only one patient (5%) did not return owing to residual laxity. No postoperative complications or re-revisions were reported. Conclusions The mono-loop technique for simultaneous ACL and ALL reconstruction using an Achilles tendon allograft during a second revision procedure is safe and effective. It results in satisfactory mid-term outcomes, low failure rates, and no significant complications, providing a viable single-stage alternative for complex revision cases. Study design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Purpose Disruption of the extensor mechanism after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an infrequent but devastating complication. Presently, limited data exists regarding the optimal treatment and long-term outcomes. Methods Patients who underwent reconstruction of their knee extensor mechanism using Achilles tendon allograft following TKA between January 2003 and January 2012 were identified. Sixteen patients with 17 reconstructions (10 patellar tendons, 7 quadriceps tendons) were studied. All patients underwent evaluation at an average of 45.7 months. Ten of the patients were followed to an average of 65.4 months. Results After reconstruction, the average extensor lag was 6.6° and average knee flexion was 105.1°. Of the patients with a minimum follow-up of two years and an average follow-up of 65.4 months, the average extensor lag and knee flexion was 8.4° and 107.9°, respectively, with quadriceps strength maintained at an average of 4/5. The quadriceps tendon reconstructions had an average extensor lag and flexion of 2.9° and 103°, respectively. The patellar tendon reconstructions, excluding one re-rupture, had an average extensor lag and flexion of 9.6° and 105.1°, respectively. Four patients died during the follow-up period. All but one of the patients were below the mean for age-matched controls on the SF-36. Conclusion Achilles tendon allograft reconstruction is a reliable and durable treatment for patients who sustain not only patellar tendon ruptures, but also quadriceps tendon ruptures following TKA. Despite the success of this technique, the injury and procedure have a profound impact on overall function.

Heterotopic ossification (HO) following distal biceps tendon repair is an uncommon but potential complication. This may present pain, limited range of motion, or sensory changes due to nerve compression. This case study reports the case of a patient who developed significant functional limitation after primary distal biceps tendon repair complicated by heterotopic ossification. Radiographs confirmed extensive ossification surrounding the radial tuberosity. Plain radiographs were obtained to confirm the presence and maturity of the HO; a CT scan was performed to delineate the extent and proximity to the neurovascular bundle for operative planning. Surgical revision was performed using an Achillies tendon allograft to reconstruct the distal biceps tendon while excising the ossified tissue. Postoperatively, the patient experienced marked improvement in motion and resolution of pain. No recurrence was observed at follow‐up. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of heterotopic ossification after tendon repair and demonstrates that timely revision with an Achillies allograft can effectively restore elbow function and minimize recurrence. Key Clinical Message Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a rare but significant complication following a distal biceps tendon repair. It can lead to functional impairment and soft tissue pain. Early recognition, prevention, and reconstruction with an Achilles tendon allograft can restore function in cases of failed primary repair. Radiographic and intraoperative findings demonstrating heterotopic ossification following distal biceps tendon repair.

Purpose Revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is technically challenging due to mispositioned tunnels, bone loss, and tunnel enlargement, which may compromise graft fixation and result in failure. To obtain firm graft fixation and strength in one stage, we utilized an over-the-top augmentation technique using an Achilles tendon allograft in revision ACL reconstruction (OA-ACLR). This study compared OA-ACLR with single-bundle ACL reconstruction (SB-ACLR). We hypothesized that OA-ACLR would enhance the postoperative knee joint rotational stability. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 47 patients who underwent revisional OA-ACLR and 48 who underwent primary SB-ACLR with minimum follow-up of 6 months. Knee instability was evaluated with the anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot shift tests preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Side-to-side differences were compared with the non-affected side at the final follow-up. Function was evaluated using the IKDC subjective and Lysholm knee scores preoperatively and at the final follow-up. Results The groups did not differ in terms of sex, age, BMI, and etiology. There were no significant differences in concomitant surgical procedures, such as meniscectomy and meniscus repair, between the two groups (p = 0.335, > 0.99). Both groups significantly improved in the anterior drawer, Lachman, pivot shift tests, and IKDC and Lysholm knee scores after surgery (all p < 0.001). The OA-ACLR group showed significantly higher rotational stability in the pivot shift test than the SB-ACLR group (p = 0.017). The postoperative side-to-side difference, the IKDC and Lysholm scores showed no significant differences between the groups (p = 0.34, 0.301, 0.438). Conclusions OA-ACLR showed enhanced rotational stability with pivot shift test compared to SB-ACLR. It may be considered a useful alternative for revision ACL reconstruction.

Background: Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) is an alternative to reverse shoulder arthroplasty for irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs). The reconstructed capsule acts as a static restraint to prevent superior migration of the humeral head. Traditional SCR uses a fascia lata autograft, which has shown failure at the greater tuberosity. An Achilles tendon–bone allograft has been proposed to improve the failure rate. Purpose: To evaluate the surgical outcomes of SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft for the treatment of IRCTs. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 6 patients with massive IRCTs who underwent SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft between January 2017 and January 2018. Clinical outcomes were assessed using range of motion, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and the visual analog scale for pain. The acromiohumeral distance and the status of graft integrity were evaluated using serial magnetic resonance imaging. Second-look arthroscopy surgery was performed to evaluate graft integrity at the mean of 7.5 months postoperative. Results: The mean ± SD clinical follow-up period was 14.5 months (range, 12-17 months). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and visual analog scale scores improved from 42.8 ± 11.9 and 4.0 ± 1.2 to 62.1 ± 14.7 and 2.8 ± 1.4, respectively. Forward flexion and external rotation improved from 98° ± 36° and 58° ± 4° to 123° ± 20° and 39° ± 8°, respectively. The acromiohumeral distance improved from 3.9 ± 0.8 mm to 6.4 ± 2.2 mm at final follow-up. However, second-look arthroscopy at a mean of 7.6 months postoperatively confirmed a graft failure rate of 83.3%. Conclusion: SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft for the treatment of IRCTs had a high graft failure rate among patients in this case series.

Background: Despite improved outcomes, failure or nonhealing of graft materials has been reported after superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Purpose: To evaluate the short-term clinical and radiological outcomes of a novel technique for SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft with the modified keyhole technique and who had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The visual analog scale score for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Constant score were evaluated as subjective outcomes, while range of motion of the shoulder joint and isokinetic strength were evaluated as objective outcomes. The acromiohumeral interval (AHI), bone-to-bone healing of the allograft and humeral head on computed tomography, and graft integrity on magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated as radiological outcomes. Results: This study included 32 patients with a mean age of 56.8 ± 4.2 years and a mean follow-up of 28.4 ± 6.2 months. A significant improvement from preoperatively to the last follow-up was seen in the mean visual analog scale score for pain (from 6.7 to 1.8), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (from 42.7 to 83.8), Constant score (from 47.2 to 78.5), and AHI (from 4.8 to 8.2 mm) (P < .001 for all) as well as range of motion in forward elevation and internal rotation (P < .001 for both). Medial-to-lateral graft integrity was good in all patients. Nonunion at the fitting zone of the keyhole on the greater tuberosity was diagnosed in 1 case (3.1%), and failure of incorporation between the allograft and remnant tendon at the site of posterior margin convergence was observed in 4 cases (12.5%). Conclusion: The outcomes after SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft and the keyhole technique improved, with an increased AHI and excellent integrity in the medial and lateral directions compared with preoperatively. This technique is a reasonable option for the surgical treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears.

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of arthroscopic double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction using double cross-pin fixation on the tibial side. Twenty-two patients who underwent PCL reconstruction using an Achilles tendon allograft with double cross-pins for tibial fixation were evaluated. There were 19 men and 3 women with mean age 36 years (range 18–59), and the average follow-up period was 33 months (range 24–60). Preoperative and postoperative knee functions were evaluated in all patients using Lysholm knee scores, the 2000 International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) grades, and Tegner activity scores. Median Lysholm knee scores were 64 (50–75) preoperatively and 88 (82–96), 89.9 ± 6.5 postoperatively ( P  < 0.001). Median side-to-side differences, determined using Telos stress radiographs, were 11 mm (8–14) preoperatively, and 3 mm (1–7) at final follow-up visits ( P  < 0.01). According to KT-2000 arthrometer measurements, mean side-to-side differences were 11 mm (8–13) preoperatively and 3 mm (1–6, P  < 0.01) at final follow-up visits ( P  < 0.01). Preoperatively the 2000 IKDC evaluation system rated all patients as abnormal or severely abnormal (C or D), and at final follow-up visits, 20 patients (88%) were rated as normal or nearly normal (A or B) and 2 patients (12%) were rated as abnormal (C). Median preinjury and preoperative Tegner scores were 7 (range 5–9) and 3 (range 2–5), respectively, and the mean postoperative Tegner score was 6 (range 3–9). There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Our study shows that arthroscopic double-bundle PCL reconstruction using an Achilles allograft with double cross-pins for tibial fixation provides satisfactory clinical results given a mean follow-up of 33 months. We believe that this method provides a reliable alternative technique of PCL reconstruction.

This article describes two cases of augmentation of ruptured tendon with fresh frozen Achilles tendon allograft (FFATA) in dogs. Case 1 was a two-year-old crossbreed dog (29 kg) that presented with an open wound on the right forelimb and with complete rupture of the flexor carpi ulnaris and superficial digital flexor tendons. Case 2 was a four-year-old crossbreed dog (4 kg) with partial ruptures of the patellar tendon and detachment of the tibial tuberosity in the right hind limb. In both cases, the ends of the ruptured tendon were sutured and apposed after debridement. To minimize suture failure, FFATA (cut to sufficient size) was placed across the primary suture with tension and sutured to the host tendon. In addition, Case 2 received a Krackow suture through a transverse bone tunnel made in the tibia to fix the patellar tendon along with the tibial tuberosity in situ. The surgical areas healed without any evidence of exaggerated inflammatory response or clinical signs consistent with rejection of the allograft. Both the dogs had normal ambulation and weight bearing on the affected limb 12 weeks postoperatively. No postoperative complications were observed during a one-year follow up period except for slight contracture of the carpus and digits of the affected limb in Case 1. Thus, ruptured tendons can be successfully repaired using suture and augmentation with FFCTA. Augmentation with FFATA may provide additional stability, which counters tension on the primary repair and reduces the chance of gap formation or suture failure in case of reconstruction of the damaged tendon in dogs.

Here we report spontaneous rupture of the bilateral patellar tendons in a 49-year-old man with rheumatoid arthritis. The ruptured tendons were sutured via bone tunnels using Krackow stitch, and the extensor mechanism of the knee was reinforced with three bundles of allograft Achilles tendons. The patient recovered well after operation. He could actively flex, extend the knees and carry out full-weight-bearing activities, and he resumed the former employment 6 months after the operation. Follow-up showed that the patient had satisfactory range of motion of the knees 1 year later.