Comparison of patellar tendon versus hamstrings autografts for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in Indian population: A randomised control trial study

42 patients with complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears were randomized to receive an ACL reconstruction with either a quadrupled hamstring tendon (QHT) graft (semitendinosus and gracilis tendon) or a bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) graft. Outcomes of interest included functional outcomes measures (Lysholm, Cincinnati scores), anterior knee pain, and instability assessments (Lachman, anterior drawer and pivot shift tests). Follow up was performed at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. No significant differences were observed in both Lysholm and Cincinnati scores at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year post-operation. However, significant differences in several Cincinnati sub-scores (pain, overall activity level, running activity) were observed between the two groups. The proportion of patients who reported anterior knee pain was similar between the two groups. Similarly, the proportion of patient who reported altered sensation over the anterolateral aspect of the proximal leg was not significantly different between groups. Lachman test, anterior drawer test and pivot shift test results were similar between groups.