Comparative Study of Functional Outcome of Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with and without Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (Modified Lemaire Technique)

Abstract

Background: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries commonly result in knee instability. This study compares functional outcomes between isolated ACL Reconstruction (ACLR) and ACLR combined with Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis (LET) using the modified Lemaire technique.

Methods: This prospective study involved 60 patients divided equally into two groups: ACLR alone and ACLR with LET. Functional outcomes were evaluated using LEFS, Tegner Lysholm, IKDC scores, and hop tests at 3, 6, 9, and 12-months follow-ups.

Results: Patients undergoing ACLR with LET showed significantly better LEFS (73.10 vs 68.57), Tegner Lysholm (92.77 vs 84.03), and IKDC (79.03 vs 72.37) scores at 12 months (p<0.001). Hop test scores indicated superior limb symmetry index and functional recovery in the ACLR with LET group.

Conclusion: ACLR combined with LET significantly improves knee stability, functional recovery, and patient satisfaction compared to isolated ACLR. Augmentation with LET is recommended for younger patients involved in pivoting sports, although further long-term studies are needed.

Keywords: ACL Reconstruction, Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis, Knee Stability, Functional Outcomes