Clinical use of a CAS system for arthroscopic ACL reconstruction: Adaptation and application in clinical routine use

Aim and Method: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is of great importance for the knee joint function. In the case of a complete ligament injury the re is hardly any chance for complete recovery. The clear advantages of an o perative reconstruction by replacing the ACL has been shown in many trails. The accurate placement of the graft's insertions has a significant effect on the mid- and probably long-term outcome of this procedure. Reviewing the literature, there are poor longterm results of ACL replacement in 5 to 52% of all cases, depending on the score system. one of the main reasons for u nacceptable results is graft misplacement. This led to the construction of a CAS system for ACL replacement. The system assists this surgical procedur e by navigating the exact position of the drilling holes. The Potential def ormation quantity of the transplant can be controlled by this system in rea l time. Results: 40 computer-assisted ACL replacements have been performed under active use of the CAS system. The short-term results are encouraging, no special complications have been seen so far. Prospective long-term foll ow-up studies are ongoing. Conclusion: ACL reconstruction by manual devices has many sources of error. The CAS system is able to give the surgeon reas onable views that are unachieveable by conventional surgery. He is therefor e able to control a source of error and to optimise the results. The feasib ility of this device in clinical routine use has been proven.