A Comparison of Anatomic Double- And Single-bundle Techniques for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction, A Prospective Randomized Study with A 5-year Follow-up

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to compare the mid-term outcome after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with either the anatomic double-bundle (DB) or anatomic single-bundle (SB) technique using hamstring tendon autografts in an unselected group of patients.Methods:103 patients (33 women, 70 men; median age, 27 years; range, 18-52 years) were randomized and underwent ACL reconstruction (DB group; n=53 and SB group; n=50). All reconstructions were performed anatomically, identifying the ACL footprints, using the anteromedial portal for the femoral tunnel drilling and utilizing interference screw for tibial and femoral fixation. One blinded observer examined the patients both preoperatively and at follow-up (median, 64 months; range, 55-75 months). Radiographic evaluation of OA was performed using the Ahlback, Kellgren-Lawrence and Fairbanks grading systems in the early postoperative period and at follow up.Results:Preoperatively, no differences were found between the stu...