Complications following all-inside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose We conducted a comprehensive analysis of possible perioperative complications following all-inside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Additional techniques and tips are proposed to prevent and manage complications. Methods Complications following all-inside ACLR performed between December 2015 and December 2020 were retrospectively analysed. Altogether, 348 operations were performed and 275 patients were enrolled with a minimum 12-month follow-up period. Only semitendinosus autograft was utilised in most patients, and semitendinosus–gracilis autograft and allograft were used in five and 31 patients, respectively. Simultaneous meniscal repair, partial meniscectomy, and chondral surgery were performed in 29.5%, 21.1%, and 4.4% of patients, respectively. Complications were observed based on the patient’s clinical condition, plain film, and magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical outcomes were assessed pre-operatively and at 12 months post-operatively, using the International Knee Documentation Committee form, Lysholm and Tegner activity scores, and KT1000 side-to-side difference. Results Intraoperative and post-operative complications developed in 65 patients (23.6%). The most common complication was cortical button malposition on the femoral side (19.3%). Intra-operative breakage of the retrograde drill was found in two cases (0.73%), with three cases (1.1%) of over-drilling with destruction of the outer cortex. Post-operatively, four (1.5%), 13 (4.7%), and 16 (5.8%) cases of infection, full-thickness re-rupture, and loss of extension, respectively, were recorded. Functional outcome scales showed significant post-operative improvement. Conclusion Cortical button malposition was the most common but easily preventable complication. All-inside ACLR could be safe and promising after the suggested additional operative techniques and proper perioperative management which decrease complication rates and improve favourable outcomes.