U-Dos Double-Bundle and Single-Bundle Allograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are very common among athletes. If these injuries are not repaired, meniscus and cartilage damage will arise, with serious consequences in the joint. Different options for ACL reconstruction have been described, aiming for anteroposterior, lateral, and rotational stability. Using single- or double-bundle grafts has been one of the most discussed topics, aiming for better rotational stability. We performed a prospective randomized study to evaluate the outcomes of ACL reconstruction using double- or single-bundle grafts for 72 patients with acute ACL injuries. Patients were blindly randomized into 2 groups of 36 knees before surgery using a blind envelope that contained the technique to be used: double-bundle U-Dos technique (DB group) or single-bundle technique (SB group). All patients had a preoperative and postoperative evaluation and were followed with the same parameters at 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 months. Both anteroposterior and rotational stability were evaluated using a KT-1000 arthrometer (MEDmetric) and an experimental Pivot-Shift Meter (ORMEDS) device. Functional outcomes were measured using the Tegner-Lysholm scale. The DB group had fewer ACL re-tears, fewer meniscal injuries, and better Tegner-Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee scores. This group also had better KT-1000 and Pivot-Shift Meter values. After 2-year follow-up, the DB group had significantly better results than the SB group. [ Orthopedics . 2023;46(1):13–18.]