328 Patellar Height After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture Reconstruction Using the Autologous Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Graft Technique in The Maltese Population

Aim The primary aim of this study is to determine whether there is a change in patellar height after closure of the patellar tendon defect after a bone-patellar tendon-bone graft harvesting. The secondary aim is to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes. Method A retrospective observational study was conducted. Patients who were diagnosed with ACL injury and underwent reconstruction of ACL using the B-p-T-B graft technique from 2015 to 2020 were included (56 patients). All patients underwent the same procedural steps in the same centre. All patients had pre- and post-operative knee radiographs (antero-posterior and lateral views). The Caton- Deschamps Index was used to measure patellar height pre- and post-operatively. The International Knee Documentation Committee-Subjective Knee Evaluation Form was used to assess functional outcome. Clinical outcome was assessed by reviewing patient records. Results There was a change from the pre-op index 0.995 +/- 0.144 (mean +/- SD) to the post-op index 0.948 +/- 0.150. With a statistically significant decrease in index of 0.048 +/- 0.131 (p value 0.009) was found. The null hypothesis (that there is no change) is rejected and therefore the alternative hypothesis (a decrease in patellar height) is accepted. The mean IKDC-SKF score was 76.851 +/- 15.015 (SD) ranging from 40.2 to 100 Conclusions Performing ACL reconstruction using the B-pT-B technique, although predisposing to a decreased patellar height, it does not increase the incidence of patella baja. An overall good functional outcome was achieved, mean IKDC-SKF 76.85. However, no clear association between change in patellar height and PF symptoms could be demonstrated.