Dr. Jeremy Burnham has authored chapter on Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction in a recently published medical textbook Knee Arthroscopy and Preservation Surgery.
The chapter examines current surgical techniques, focusing on three key technical aspects of the procedure:
- Bone tunnel placement methodology, including transtibial, anteromedial portal, and outside-in approaches
- Graft selection considerations, comparing autograft options (bone-patellar tendon-bone, hamstring, and quadriceps tendons) and allograft applications
- Fixation techniques, analyzing various methods including interference screws, cortical button fixation, and transverse femoral fixation systems
The ACL is one of the main stabilizing ligaments in your knee – think of it like a strong rope that helps keep your knee stable when you run, jump, or change direction. When this ligament tears (a common sports injury), surgery is often needed to rebuild it. This is called ACL reconstruction.
In this new book chapter, Dr. Burnham explains three main parts of ACL surgery that surgeons need to understand:
- Tunnel Placement: Imagine building a tunnel through the bones of your knee. The surgeon needs to place these tunnels in exactly the right spots to make the new ACL work properly. Dr. Burnham describes different ways to create these tunnels:
- Through the shin bone (transtibial approach)
- From the front of the knee (anteromedial portal)
- From the outside of the knee (outside-in technique)
- Choosing the Right Graft: To rebuild the ACL, surgeons need to use a tissue graft – essentially a replacement ligament. The chapter compares different options:
- Using part of the patient’s own patellar tendon (from the front of the knee)
- Using hamstring tendons (from the back of the thigh)
- Using quadriceps tendon (from the front of the thigh)
- Using donor tissue (called allografts)
Each type of graft has its own advantages, and Dr. Burnham explains how surgeons can choose the best option for each patient.
- Securing the New Ligament: Once the new ACL is in place, it needs to be firmly attached to the bone. The chapter describes various methods surgeons can use:
- Special screws that hold the graft in the bone tunnels
- Button-like devices that anchor the graft on the outside of the bone
- Cross-pins that hold the graft in place
The chapter helps other surgeons understand these techniques by explaining:
- How each method works
- When to use different approaches
- What the current research says about these techniques
- How to avoid common problems
- Ways to get the best results for patients
This work is part of a larger medical textbook that teaches surgeons about modern knee surgery techniques. It joins Dr. Burnham’s other published works about sports medicine and orthopedic surgery.
Dr. Burnham is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Recognized for his expertise in complex knee reconstruction, ACL surgery, and advanced shoulder procedures, Dr. Burnham combines cutting-edge research with personalized patient care. As a published researcher and active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, he specializes in helping athletes and active individuals return to peak performance through both surgical and non-surgical treatments. His evidence-based approach and commitment to advancing orthopedic care have made him a trusted expert in sports medicine throughout the Gulf South region. For appointments or consultations, click CONTACT US.