OBJETIVE: To evaluate the results of single band arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with flexor tendon autografts. We analyzed data about sex, body mass index (BMI) and lower limb fracture associated with the initial trauma. METHODS: Two hundred and sixty-five patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with ipsilateral thigh flexor tendon autografts from July 6, 2000, to November 19, 2007, were evaluated. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-six patients were evaluated at an average follow up time of 34.95 ± 18.8 months (Median 31 months) (IIQ: 20 - 48 months). The minimum evaluation time was 12 months and the maximum 87 months. One hundred and thirty-eight (78.4%) patients had excellent results, 22 (12.5%) patients good, 8 (4.5%) patients fair, and 8 (4.5%) poor results. No statistical significance was found for the better results for males (p = 0.128), for patients with a BMI < 25 (p = 0.848), or for patients with ACL trauma unrelated to a fracture of the lower limb (p = 0.656). CONCLUSION: ACL reconstruction with ipsilateral thigh flexor tendon autografts showed good and excellent results in 91.4% of the patients. Male patients appear to obtain better results. No statistical difference was found when the results were analyzed in relation to BMI or association with an initial traumatic fracture that tore the ACL.
Knee; Anterior cruciate ligament; Arthroscopy; Transplantation, Autologous