Dr. Jeremy Burnham recently participated as a co-author in an important study presented at the 2024 Freddie Fu Panther Sports Medicine Symposium. The research, which brought together international experts in complex ligament reconstructions and revision surgery, provides valuable insights into current practices for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with anterolateral complex augmentation.
The study, published in the Journal of ISAKOS, revealed that the majority of high-volume orthopedic sports surgeons (87%) prefer lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) for anterolateral complex augmentation during ACL reconstruction. This preference was particularly pronounced in cases involving high-grade pivot shift, which emerged as the primary indication for this additional procedure.
Panther ACL Group
As part of the Panther ACL Treatment Group, Dr. Burnham collaborated with surgeons worldwide to analyze surgical preferences and decision-making processes in complex knee ligament cases. The research team found that LET procedures were increasingly utilized in revision surgeries, highlighting the technique’s importance in challenging cases where previous ACL reconstructions had failed.
The Freddie Fu Panther Sports Medicine Symposium, named after the most influential ACL orthopedic surgeon who advanced ACL reconstruction techniques, served as an ideal platform for this collaborative research. The symposium brought together experienced surgeons in sports medicine, fostering an environment of knowledge exchange and refinement of surgical techniques.
Notable Findings about Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis
A notable finding from the study was the clear preference for LET over anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALL-R), with only 4% of surgeons opting for the latter technique. This data provides helpful guidance for orthopedic surgeons in their approach to complex ACL cases.
Dr. Burnham’s participation in this international collaboration reflects his commitment to advancing the field of sports medicine and providing his patients with current, evidence-based treatments. His involvement in such research ensures that patients in his practice benefit from the latest developments in ACL reconstruction techniques.
When to Perform LET Augmentation
The research findings suggest that surgeons should particularly consider LET augmentation in cases of revision ACL reconstruction or when patients present with a high-grade pivot shift. This knowledge helps inform surgical decision-making and potentially improves outcomes for patients requiring complex knee ligament surgery.
This contribution to the orthopedic surgery knowledge base represents another step in Dr. Burnham’s ongoing commitment to excellence in sports medicine and his dedication to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice and collaborative research.
This article 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.