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Abstract

An improved method of reconstructing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is disclosed. Unique instruments and systems for use with the method are also disclosed. The knee joint is inspected arthroscopically to confirm the rupture and possibly take care of other defects. The patellar tendon or semitendinosus tendon is harvested from the patient for the graft (if either is going to be used for the reconstruction), or another ACL substitute is obtained. The graft is prepared for implanting. Notchplasty is generally performed to expand the intercondylar notch. The tibial attachment site of the ACL is determined and a tibial tunnel is drilled over a K-wire from the front face of the tibia to the attachment site using a drill guide system. Preferably, the tibial tunnel starts at a point 20-25 mm below the knee joint. An optimal site for drilling the femoral tunnel is determined through use of a suture anchor and isometer. The suture anchor is a threaded peg which is positioned by a hand-held cannulated driver. A pilot hole is formed preferably with a unique K-wire device having means thereon for limiting the depth of the hole. Once the isometric point has been determined, a closed-end tunnel (or 'socket') is drilled into the femur at that point. The hole is drilled using a new drill bit having a small shank, an abbreviated drilling head, and a smooth transition portion between the shank and head; this drill bit prevents damage to the posterior cruciate ligament. The graft is implanted through the osseous tunnel with one end being secured in the closed-end femoral tunnel and the other end to the front of the tibia adjacent to the tibial tunnel. Semitendinosus tendon grafts are prepared in bundles with elongated sutures stitched at the ends. A suture passing channel is formed through the femur from the closed-end femoral tunnel and the graft sutures are passed through it and connected to the lateral face of the femur by a button. The graft sutures are affixed at the other end of the graft to a post or screw secured in the tibia. Patellar tendons can be affixed at one end in the closed-end femoral tunnel with an interference screw, or, alternately, sutures passed through a passing channel and affixed to a button on the femur. The other end of the patellar tendon grafts are secured by being stapled or otherwise securely affixed to the tibia.

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First Claim