In anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, the double bundle technique attempts to reconstruct both the anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) bundles. The primary functional role of the posterolateral bundle is:

• A Controlling rotational stability (pivot shift) especially at or near extension ✓
• B Restricting anterior tibial translation at 90° of knee flexion
• C Preventing posterior tibial translation
• D Providing valgus stability of the knee

Explanation

The ACL has two functional bundles. The anteromedial (AM) bundle is taut in flexion and primarily restrains anterior tibial translation at higher flexion angles. The posterolateral (PL) bundle is taut in extension and near-extension, primarily controlling rotational stability (resisting internal tibial rotation and the pivot-shift phenomenon). The pivot-shift phenomenon in ACL-deficient knees (giving way during cutting maneuvers) results primarily from PL bundle deficiency. Double-bundle reconstruction aims to better replicate normal rotational control compared to single-bundle techniques.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.