Remnant preservation technique versus standard technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

7 randomized controlled trials were selected for inclusion in this meta-analysis which sought to compare outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament remnant preservation and resection in ACL reconstruction. Outcomes included clinical scores, knee stability measures, and incidence of complications. For clinical measures, no significant difference in IKDC subjective score was observed between techniques, though Lysholm scores significantly favoured remnant preservation. For knee stability, no significant differences between techniques were noted in the rates of negative pivot-shift and Lachman tests, while KT-1000/2000 arthrometer results significantly favoured remnant preservation. No significant difference in the incidence of complications was observed between techniques.