Summary

Postural balance recovery plays a major role in athletes performance after ACL reconstruction.Anatomic single bundle ACL reconstruction in the center of the ACL footprint shows better results compared to anteromedial group in postural balance. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of graft position on postural balance in athletes submitted to anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

Abstract

Postural balance recovery plays a major role in athletes performance after ACL reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of graft position on postural balance in athletes submitted to anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction. Methods: A prospective randomized blinded study included 42 athletes between 18 and 45 years old submitted to anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon autograft separated in 2 groups: anteromedial (AM) and central (C). Postural balance were valuated at 6 and 12 months using posturography. Return to sports, Lysholm and IKDC scales, were considered as secondary outcomes.

Results

Group C presented better results in the following posturography parameters when compared with Group AM: average mediolateral dislocation on kicking stance at 6 months (-0,43±0,15cm vs. -0,87± 0,18cm respectively, p <0.05), maximum mediolateral dislocation on one leg stance at 12 months (1,05±0,18cm vs. 1,28±0,31 cm respectively, p <0.05) and average mediolateral dislocation with knee flexing stance (0.31±1.35 cm vs. -1.03±1.18 cm respectively, p <0.05). No difference was seen between the groups regarding Tegner, Lysholm and IKDC scales.

Conclusion

Postural balance is a useful tool for the evaluation of postural balance in athletes and could be used as another parameter of return to sport. Anatomic single bundle ACL reconstruction in the center of the ACL footprint shows better results compared to anteromedial group in postural balance.