Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to describe the arthroscopic superlateral capsule pathway technique for spotting femoral fixation device deployment, and to compare the results with normal procedure. METHODS: A total of 69 patients underwent ACLR (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction) with or without the SCP (superolateral capsule pathway) during procedure were retrospectively selected and evaluated. A total of 36 patients underwent SCP and 33 patients underwent ACLR without SCP. Mean follow-up was 6 months after surgery. All patient noted joint fluid, underwent VAS and Lysholm score at follow-up, and statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found in patient demographics, ACLR duration time (p = 0.076) and Lysholm score (p = 0.296). Significantly less postoperation pain was reported in the SCP group (p = 0.000), and fluid volume in SCP group was significantly lower (p = 0.001). The postoperative complications were rare in both group. CONCLUSIONS: The superolateral capsule pathway approach is a minimally invasive and safe technique that can be used to accurately locate and implant suture button-based femoral fixation devices in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.