Editorial Commentary: No Difference in Knee Osteoarthritis After Single-Bundle Versus Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Abstract

Systematic reviews now play a key role in evidence-based medicine, summarizing empirical findings from evaluated studies on a specific problem and examining the variability of those. These reviews help scientists integrate and evaluate relevant information in their research and support practitioners in decision-making processes. Since the early years of the current century, there has been a debate as to whether double-bundle or single-bundle reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament will better protect the knee. An essential aspect in the general indication of ligament reconstruction of the knee joint is the aim to prevent or at least to slow down the development process of osteoarthritis. At present, most clinical measures show no difference in outcome between single-bundle and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Systematic review of the literature investigating development of knee osteoarthritis after single-bundle and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction also shows no difference in outcome for this very important measure.