Direct Visualization of the Femoral Cortical Button in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Helps Ensure Proper Positioning

Abstract

This study sought to postoperatively compare femoral cortical button (FCB) placement in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction performed using an adjustable loop cortical femoral fixation button under direct arthroscopic visualization vs indirect methods. The authors conducted a retrospective review of postoperative knee radiographs from 76 patients who had undergone ACL reconstruction with an adjustable loop cortical femoral fixation button. Operative reports were reviewed to determine the technique used for graft placement. Two sports fellowship-trained surgeons reviewed the collected radiographs, and the position of the FCB in each patient was subsequently graded. Of the 76 patients reviewed, 42 cases were performed using direct visualization, whereas 34 cases used indirect methods. This analysis showed that FCBs placed with direct visualization were more likely to have optimal position directly on the femoral cortex compared with indirect methods (chi-square test, P=.046). The grading scores demonstrated moderate strength of interobserver reliability (kappa coefficient=0.62). Direct arthroscopic visualization while placing an FCB during ACL reconstruction with an adjustable loop cortical fixation button can help ensure optimal button placement. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(3):191-195.].