Background: The mechanisms of anterior cruciate ligament (ACR) rupture may include a pivoting mechanism, which is responsible for concomitant lesions of the anterolateral structures. This anterolateral complex is the main stabilizer of tibial internal rotation and therefore accountable for a persisting pivot shift despite technical improvement of ACR reconstruction. For this reason, knee surgeons' interest in addressing anterolateral stabilization in addition to ACR reconstruction has been renewed.
Studies: Biomechanical and clinical studies have shown promising results so far. The modified, lateral, extra-articular stabilization according to Lemaire as a non-anatomical reconstruction of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) shines with a low morbidity, since no additional tendon harvesting is needed. Besides the potential benefits there are several risks and disadvantages. For example, complete control of the pivot-shift phenomenon is not possible in nearly 8% of cases. In addition, too tight tensioning of the ALL may result in an increase of pressure in the lateral knee compartment. Overall, ALL reconstruction is a hot topic and is heavily discussed in literature. This article provides an overview and brings the modified technique of Lemaire into focus.
Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament; Anterolateral complex; Anterolateral ligament; Knee joint; Rotation.