Abstract: Background: Different kind of grafts has been described in the literature in detail for ACL reconstruction. They are mostly bone-patella tendon-bone, hamstrings, allograft and synthetic grafts. In this study we evaluated the possible advantage of peroneus longus tendon (PLT) graft over other grafts for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.
Materials and Methods: The study included in total of 24 patients, out of which 20 were males, and 4 were females. The mean age was 28 years; range 22 to 37 years who underwent ACL reconstruction using a PLT autograft. Eight patients have torn meniscus for which repair/debridement were done depending on the condition. The results were assessed according to the clinical examination and functional score at the end of at least 6 months of follow-up.
Results: No difference were noted in the movement of operated and non-operated ankles. There was good antero- posterior stability noticed in the operated knee post reconstruction, which was assessed by lachman test and normal range of motion post-surgery. According to Lysholm score 15 had excellent or good results. One patient developed foot drop due to peroneal nerve neuropraxia.
Conclusion: Our study concluded that harvesting the peroneus longus tendon has no effect on gait of the patient and does not lead to instability of the ankle. So, it can be used as an autogenous graft in orthopedic surgeries. Compared to other graft peroneus longus size is sufficient, graft harvesting is easy, thickness is appropriate, can be used in multi-ligament injury and no fear of graft loss while harvesting. Results of ACL reconstruction by PLT was comparable to any other graft reconstruction.
