Authors:

Luke V. Tollefson, B.S., Matthew T. Rasmussen, M.D., Grace Guerin, B.S., Christopher M. LaPrade, M.D., and Robert F. LaPrade, M.D., Ph.D.

Abstract:

Purpose:

To explore the indications, outcomes, and complications related to slope-reducing osteotomies in the setting of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears or graft failure. A secondary aim was to create an algorithm on the basis of the current literature and authors’ opinions.

Methods:

This study was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Studies were included if they reported on outcomes related to slope-reducing osteotomies both for primary ACL tears and revision ACL graft tears. The studies were analyzed to determine the radiographic outcomes, patient-reported outcomes (PROs), physical examination findings, and complications. Statistical analysis could not be performed because of the heterogeneity between studies.

Results:

A total of 148 studies were screened for inclusion in this systematic review and after full-text review, a total of 16 studies were included in this systematic review. Fourteen of the studies reported on pre- versus postoperative posterior tibial slope (PTS) and all but one reported significant decrease in PTS. Seven studies reported on pre- versus postoperative PROs, and all studies reported significant improvements in postoperative scores. Anterior tibial translation was measured in 8 studies, and all reported a significant decrease in anterior tibial translation postoperatively. The most common complication was postoperative  hyperextension and irritation from hardware. Irritation from hardware was only reported in studies that used plates to fixate the osteotomy.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, slope-reducing proximal tibial osteotomies performed concurrently or as a second-stage surgery with an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) resulted in improved PROs and decreased ACLR failure rates. Slope-reducing proximal tibial osteotomies are an important treatment consideration for those patients with an increased PTS, especially for patients with a failed ACLR and a PTS 12, to reduce the risk of ACLR failure. Level of Evidence: Level IV, systematic review of Level IV studies.

You can download the study: Slope-Reducing Proximal Tibial Osteotomy Improves Outcomes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Patients With Elevated Posterior Tibial Slope, Especially Revisions and Posterior Tibial Slope >12