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Abstract

An improved method of reconstructing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). After the knee joint is examined, the gracilis and semitendinosus tendons are harvested and prepared into a graft. Wallplasty is performed and the femoral attachment site for the ACL graft is marked. A hole is drilled through the femur to the marked site. A transverse locator pin is positioned through the femur. The transverse locator pin is used to position a drill guide which in turn is used to drill a hole through the tibia. Preferably, the femoral and tibial holes are tested isometrically to determine if they are the proper sites for the osseous tunnels for the graft. The femoral and tibial tunnels are drilled over guide pins positioned in the holes. Any impingement of the roof of the intercondylar notch on the substitute ACL graft is marked with a gouge and roofplasty is performed. Finally, the substitute ACL graft is passed through the osseous tunnels and secured in place.

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First Claim