Confirmation of femoral button deployment under direct visualization during ACL reconstruction is not beneficial

The purpose of this study was to determine whether direct visualization of adjustable-loop cortical suspensory button deployment onto the lateral femur increases the cortical contact rate of the button, thereby improving clinical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Sixty-five single-bundle anteromedial portal ACL reconstructions using an adjustable-loop button were retrospectively divided into 2 groups according to use of the blind pulling technique (control group; 32 patients) or the direct visualization technique (visualization group; 33 patients) when confirming deployment of the button. Cortical contact rate of the button on immediate and 2-year postoperative radiographs, knee stability measured using a KT-1000 arthrometer, and functional scores (Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee score) at 2 years postoperative were compared between the groups. There was no significant difference in femoral cortical contact rate between the groups immediately (56% control group vs 55% visualization group; P=1.000) and at 2 years postoperative (78% control group vs 82% visualization group; P=.764). At 2 years postoperative, there was no difference between the groups regarding knee stability (1.3±0.9 mm vs 1.5±0.8 mm, respectively; P=.404), Lysholm score (P=.436), and International Knee Documentation Committee score (P=.507). Confirmation of adjustable-loop button deployment under direct visualization during anteromedial portal ACL reconstruction neither increased cortical contact rate nor improved clinical outcomes.