Gracilis Autograft for Recurrent Posttraumatic Instability of the Superior Tibiofibular Joint

Background: Several reconstruction procedures have been proposed to manage recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint.

Hypothesis: Reconstruction of the superior tibiofibular joint using a gracilis tendon autograft is effective in recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Eight patients with recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint without anatomical predisposing factors and who practiced sports were included in the study. Evaluation included the modified Cincinnati rating system and the Kujala score, anthropometry, plain radiography, and isokinetic dynamometry.

Results: The average follow-up was 44 ± 13 months. The mean modified Cincinnati score increased from 54 preoperatively to 92 (P = .01). The mean Kujala scores increased from 48 preoperatively to 85 (P = .05). The muscle volume of the thigh of the operated limb remained less well developed than the muscle volume of the nonoperated limb (P = .05). Significant isokinetic strength differences were found between the operated and the contralateral limb (P = .02) even at the latest follow-up.

Conclusion: Gracilis autograft for posttraumatic instability of the superior tibiofibular joint is a safe, reliable management option for recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint in patients without any predisposing factors.