Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament by the tendons of the pes anserinus

Summary

After over two years' experience of arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament by the tendons of the pes anserinus in more than 1400 patients, we have acquired considerable experience of the numerous technical problems encountered, to which we have attempted to supply solutions. We employed the original technique of Pinczweski of Sydney, from whom we derived the basic principles and the various skills acquired during his learning curve. The principles and problems encountered during the preparation of the tunnels and insertion of the graft are not specific to this type of graft and are already well mastered by many surgeons. However, the removal of the tendons of the pes anserinus as well as their fixation are new to many and the advice tendered here may notably shorten the learning curve and reduce the failures associated with the use of any new technique.