The Anterolateral Complex of the Knee: A Comprehensive Review of Its Structure and Function

Vol 1 | Issue 1 |  July – Dec 2016 | Page 5-9 | Jeremy M Burnham, Elmar Herbst, Marcio B V Albers, Thierry Pauyo,
Freddie H Fu


Authors: Jeremy M Burnham [1], Elmar Herbst [1], Marcio B V Albers [1], Thierry Pauyo [1],
Freddie H Fu[1].

[1] Orthopedic Oncology Services, Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Ashish Gulia
Associate Professor, Orthopedic oncology, Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai.
Email: aashishgulia@gmail.com


Abstract

Introduction: Persistent rotatory instability is often described in association with ACL reconstruction. Recent studies have drawn attention to the lateral sided knee structures as possible contributors to this instability. However, varying terminology and research methodology has made the results of these recent studies difficult to interpret. It is crucial that surgeons have a thorough understanding of anterolateral knee anatomy and function prior to proposing extra-articular treatment options. The most important factor in restoring rotatory knee stability is to perform an individualized, anatomic ACL reconstruction that recreates the native anatomy of the torn ACL. This will restore native knee stability in the vast majority of cases. However, a subset of patients will have some degree of anterolateral knee injury that may need to be addressed. At this time, the proper indications for surgery and the best extra-articular procedure are not known. Therefore, it is paramount that future research establishes consistent terminology and research methodology so that scientific understanding of this incredibly intricate anatomic complex can progress.
Key Words: Anterior cruciate ligament, reconstruction, Anterolateral Complex of the Knee.


Introduction

Despite multiple technological advances in the surgical technique, graft options, and postoperative rehabilitation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, some patients continue to have persistent rotatory instability [1-3]. The reasons for this rotatory instability are multifactorial, and contributing factors can include untreated meniscal tears, under-appreciated menisco-capsular separations, bony morphologic characteristics, poor tunnel positioning, improper graft choice, technical mistakes during ACL reconstruction, generalized ligamentous laxity, and injuries to the anterolateral side of the knee [4-8].  Recent studies have suggested that the anterolateral knee structures may play an important role in the rotatory stability of the knee [1, 9, 10]. In fact, some studies have reported the discovery of a new ligament, termed the anterolateral ligament (ALL) [11-13]. Other studies have suggested anterolateral rotatory instability is a function of multiple anterolateral knee structures, termed the anterolateral complex (ALC), as opposed to a single ligamentous structure [14, 15]. In fact, anterolateral rotatory instability and the anterolateral knee structures have become quite a controversial topic. Inconsistent terminology, varying definitions of the origin and insertion of the ALL, differing specimen preparation methods and dissection methods, the complexity of the lateral sided knee anatomy, and variable interpretation of imaging findings have all contributed to the confusion surrounding the anterolateral knee structures. Consistent terminology and reporting will be crucial to advancing the knowledge and understanding of the anterolateral knee structures in the future. Contrary to popular belief, investigations and descriptions of the anterolateral knee structures are not a recent phenomenon. Several authors described a mid-third capsular thickening in the 1980s [16-20]. Furthermore, it appears that many modern descriptions of the ALL are likely referring to either the capsulo-osseous layer of the iliotibial band (ITB)[12, 21, 22], the mid-third capsular ligament[23-26], or both[13]. It is often difficult to compare between studies as findings from dissections performed using embalmed specimens seem to differ from those using fresh-frozen specimens.

Anatomy

The anatomy of the anterolateral knee is quite complex. However, the function of these structures becomes more obvious with greater understanding of the native anatomy. The anterolateral knee can be divided into three general layers and four main structure groups (superficial ITB, deep ITB, capsulo-osseous layer of the ITB, and the anterolateral capsule). The superficial ITB is located in Layer 1.[27] It inserts distally on Gerdy’s tubercle and just posterior to Gerdy’s tubercle. It contains fibers running to the lateral aspect of the patellar and patellar tendon, known as the iliopatellar band (Figure 1).

figure-1

Posteriorly, the superficial ITB connects with the fascia of the biceps femoris. It attaches to the lateral intermuscular septum as well [16]. Layer 2 consists of the posterior aspect of the superficial ITB as well as the deep ITB. This layer attaches to the lateral femoral epicondyle and inserts just posterior to Gerdy´s tubercle. Proximally, the Kaplan fibers are part of this layer (Figure 2) [28].

figure-2

These fibers connect the superficial ITB with the distal femoral metaphysis and condyle. They also run near the superior genicular artery and its branches [17]. The capsulo-osseous layer of the ITB is continuous with the lateral gastrocnemius muscle fascia.[16] The capsulo-osseous layer merges with the rest of the ITB distally. It then inserts on an area halfway between the posterior aspect of the fibular head and the tip of Gerdy´s tubercle, termed the mid-lateral tibial tubercle. Finally, Layer 3 contains the anterolateral capsule.[27] The capsule consists of a superficial and deep layer, both of which merge into one layer more anteriorly. The deep layer passes deep to the LCL and the superficial layer passes over it superficially. It is thought that the thickening at the confluence of the two layers may be the mid third capsular ligament as described by Hughston et al.[18, 19] to be present in 35% of dissected specimens. Regarding the presence of a discrete identifiable ALL, study results have varied widely.[29] Some studies report that there is an ALL present in nearly 100% of the specimens, while others have found it to be present in a third of specimens. [12, 13, 15, 23, 24, 30] One study examined pediatric cadaver knees reported that the ALL was present in 12.5% of the specimens.[31] Some studies may have enhanced the presence of the ligament by positioning the knee structures such that the capsule was tensioned in the shape of a ligament, and then by removing the surrounding tissue.[32, 33] The anatomic location of the proposed ALL differs among studies as well. Some studies list the femoral origin posterior to the lateral collateral ligament (LCL),[24, 33] some describe it near the LCL origin,[23, 24] and some describe it as originating anterior and/or distal to the LCL origin.[13, 23, 32, 34] Descriptions of the distal insertion likewise vary. While most studies have reported the distal insertion to be located mid-way between Gerdy’s tubercle and the fibular head,[13, 23, 24, 34] others have described it as being located slightly more anterior.[11, 25] Further disagreements include the relationship of the ALL with the capsule, the meniscus, and the overall orientation of the ALL fibers.[11-15, 22, 24-26, 32-36] Regardless, it is obvious that the lack of standardization in anatomical descriptions as well as varying specimen fixation methods, dissection methods, and cadaver ages has led to discrepant descriptions and findings regarding the presence and anatomy of the anterolateral structures. As such, it is recommended that the anterolateral knee structures consisting of the superficial and deep ITB (along with the Kaplan fibers and capsulo-osseous layer) and the anterolateral capsule be referred to as the anterolateral complex (ALC).

Biomechanics

Numerous studies have investigated the biomechanics of anterolateral knee structures. While many of these studies have investigated the relationship between the ALL and rotatory instability, results have been inconsistent. Furthermore, the actual structures considered as the ALL differ and this heterogeneity has made it difficult to interpret the findings [26, 37-42]. Although the ITB is known to confer significant rotatory stability to the knee[36] many of the studies have investigated the ALL with the IT band sectioned. On the other hand, when injury to the ALL were investigated with preserved ITB function, no increase in rotatory instability was observed.[43] Of the studies that did report greater rotatory knee instability with sectioning of the ALL, many were performed at high flexion angles which are not representative of knee position during typical ACL injury [39, 40, 44].  Importantly, the ITB has been found to be the most robust contributor to anterolateral knee stability through all angles of knee flexion.[36] The part of the superficial and deep ITB that is located between the Kaplan fibers proximally, and the insertion at the proximal tibia distally, form a discreet functional unit which contributes greatly to knee stability.[17, 20] In fact, tightening of this structure has been reported with knee flexion, as well as an increase in length.[17, 20] Robotic studies have shown that this portion of the ITB is responsible for 70% of the restraint to internal rotation restraint in ACL intact and deficient knees [36]. Some studies have reported that suggested injuries to the anterolateral capsular structures are associated with greater rotatory instability.[9, 45] In fact, increased lateral compartment translation during pivot shift (utilizing quantitative pivot shift testing) was associated with MRI-visible anterolateral capsule injury[9]. When interpreting these results, it should be noted that identification of individual anterolateral structures can be difficult via MRI, and the ALC should be considered as a whole when evaluating for injury when using this imaging modality.

Management

Various procedures have been proposed to address anterolateral complex injuries. However, it should be noted that an anatomic ACL reconstruction, individualized for each patient, is the most important step in restoring rotatory knee stability in this patient population. In addition, other injuries such as meniscal tears, should be treated properly to help restore stability. In fact, it is not currently known which patients may benefit from extra-articular anterolateral procedures. One study reported good outcomes after a combined “anatomic ALL” reconstruction combined with ACL reconstruction. Interestingly, there was no control group to compare to, and follow-up time was less than ideal.[46] Further biomechanical studies have suggested that extra-articular procedures may play a role in patients with ALC/ALL injuries. However, extra-articular procedures carry inherent risks, including over-constraint of the lateral compartment, ultimately leading to arthritis, and wound problems. Interestingly, many of these procedures recommend the use of the ITB as an extra-articular graft. It should be noted that the ITB utilized as graft has been shown to be stiffer than many of the anterolateral structures, and may contribute to the over-constraint often described with these procedures. Furthermore, removal of a portion of the ITB to utilize in its non-native position may lead to worsening anterolateral instability. In addition, it is not known if anterolateral knee injuries will heal on their own. As such, surgeons should use caution before performing additional extra-articular procedures for anterolateral complex injuries in the setting of ACL reconstruction.


Conclusion

Persistent rotatory instability is a well-known finding associated with ACL reconstruction. While proper reconstruction of the ACL is requisite to achieving optimal outcomes, concomitant injuries must be considered, especially in the setting of significant rotatory instability. The anterolateral structures play an important role in this stability, and should be assessed for injury. However, the indications for extra-articular tenodeses and reconstructions are currently unknown. Unindicated anterolateral knee procedures can be associated with significant negative outcomes, and their use must be carefully considered. Future studies on anterolateral knee should use consistent terminology and sound research methodology. In fact, it is recommended to refer to the anterolateral knee structures as the anterolateral complex (ALC) to properly refer to numerous structures which make up a synergistic functional unit.


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How to Cite this article: Burnham JM, Herbst E, Albers M,  Pauyo T, Fu FH. The Anterolateral Complex of the Knee: A Comprehensive Review of Its Structure and Function. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics July – Dec 2016; 1(1):5-9.

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Perspective on Orthopaedic Research and Publication in India

Volume 1 | Issue 1 |  July – Dec 2016 | Page 3-4 | Ashok K Shyam, Parag K Sancheti


Authors: Ashok K Shyam [1,2], Parag K Sancheti [1]

[1] Sancheti Institute for Orthopaedics &Rehabilitation, Pune, India.
[2] Indian Orthopaedic Research Group, Thane, India.

Address of Correspondence
Dr Ashok Shyam
A-203, Manthan Apts, Shreesh CHS, Hajuri Road, Thane [W],Maharashtra, India.
Email: drashokshyam@gmail.com


Medical Research can be broadly divided into two, clinical research and academic research. Clinical research includes studies that are directly or indirectly funded/conducted by the pharmaceutical companies or the industry. The academic research pertains to research done by surgeons/clinicians at universities, institutes or at individual level. Academic Research and publication are the main source of enriching the medical subjects. This is especially true for surgical subjects like orthopaedics where industry sponsored studies may tend to be biased towards their specific products. Textbooks and reviews are synthesis of these academic research studies that are published in peer reviewed Journals. This knowledge base is in constant state of flux with new information adding to or overwriting the old concepts and principles. This requires constant addition of new academic studies to literature and thus the need to support and conduct such research. There is a huge need to promote academic orthopaedic research in India. India as a country, has orthopaedic challenges that are specific to its population. We see cases of osteomyelitis, infections like tuberculosis, delayed fracture presentations and revision cases that are not seen in the western world. The world literature is sparse on these diseases and we can’t rely on it to provide us guidelines to manage these cases. The socio-economic and cultural views of our patients also vary a lot and many a times we have to come up with innovative plans to face the challenges of individual patients. The best way would be for us will be to publish our data and make it available for systematic reviews and create our own body of literature that will provide relevant guidelines for our own problems [1]. If every surgeon from India publishes his or her orthopaedic knowledge to a common pool, we would be able to draw patient specific conclusions from this pool of knowledge. We can learn from experiences of our colleagues and will be better equipped to provide optimal treatment to our patients. Although this dream will take long time, infrastructure planning and a huge dedicated network, we believe the process has already begun. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics is a glowing example of such an initiative from the oldest and one of the most academically strong orthopaedic body in the country. Academic orthopaedic research in India is surely improving but at a very slow pace. There are many reasons for this ‘research apathy’ but the main reasons are lack of training in principles of research and publication, lack of support and guidance and lack of platforms to present and publish. The authors should realise that research should be focussed on patients needs and core principles of research methodology have to be followed. Every publications should exhibit high clinical quality and ethical standards. In orthopaedics, most of the areas have shades of grey as far as decision making is concerned. The available options vary from conservative to surgical methods but every option has its own place with its own set of indications and contraindications. The main aim of orthopaedic research is to specify and refine these indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages, limitations and complications of these treatment options. This can only be achieved when we are able to collect and collate our data, interpret it scientifically, subject it to peer review and publish it. A high standard of ethics and publication has to be maintained but this is easier said than done. Although this may not be true for most published article, many articles that are published today are simply for the sake of publication. There are lot of poor conducted studies and poorly written articles that are published. Plagiarism is a special issue that needs spread of more awareness and understanding among the authors [2,3 ]. One of the causes of recent increase in these malpractices is the Medical Council of India (MCI) directive where publications are made necessary for promotions and appointments in medical colleges. The MCI had laid down the rule with good intention of promoting research and publication, but there was no training and infrastructure provided for research. Surgeons were simply expected to produce papers when they haven’t conducted a single project in years except probably participate in thesis of their students. This not only led to increase in unethical practices and publication of poor articles but also led to growth of predatory Journals that promised rapid publication for a fees [4]. Other issues like peer review frauds, duplicate publications, salami slicing and ghost authorships are also on rise in recent years. A clear picture of these can be obtained from the websites like ‘retraction watch’ [5] and other such sentinel websites. The solution for these issues is urgent dissemination of information regarding adverse effects of such malpractices and also education about correct and ethical practices. Journals like Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics can play a very important role in changing this scenario. Reviews and articles based on research methodology and publications will help in spreading the correct information. Also the academic weight and stature of Bombay Orthopaedic Society will definitely increase the impact of these articles manifold. We believe this situation will change with focussed efforts and with the new breed of clinician scientists showing interest in academic research the future looks much brighter. In addition there are more opportunities arising due to change in policies of academic bodies, who are now offering assistance for research and publications. In developed countries, academic research is done through co-operation of three entities namely the universities, government and the industry. Although this co-operation still does not exist in India (as far as orthopaedics is concerned), there has been increased recognition for academic research by the government and universities. Academic bodies like Bombay Orthopaedic Society (BOS), Indian Orthopaedic Association, Indian Orthopaedic Research Group (IORG) etc are showing great interest in this area. There are number of research methodology courses and workshops held in the country to train the surgeons in the art of research and publications. Many of these organisations also provide funds and resources for academic research projects. IORG has started many clinician initiated speciality journals including the popular Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports [6]. Recent launch of projects like ‘Trauma Registry’ will help in creating a network of Academic Surgeons coming together to do research that will have great impact. BOS has its own ongoing research projects and most noted of them is the project on tuberculosis which will definitely have path breaking impact. The BOS journal, ‘Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics’ (JCORTH) will provide platform for many Indian surgeons to publish their work. It is also a great step in initiating postgraduate students and trainees in the habit of reading and publishing. The outreach of JCORTH would be exceptional and it will definitely contribute immensely in improving the research and publication scenario in the country.  The future of Orthopaedic research and publication looks promising but there is definitely a need for improved awareness and education and also need for platforms to publish and present the research. We have to remain cautious and careful about the malpractices and aim to maintain high standard of ethics in our research and publications.


References

1. Jain AK. Research in orthopaedics: A necessity. Indian J Orthop 2009;43:315-7
2. Poduval M. Plagiarism- Cut it at the roots. Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports. 2015 Jan-Mar;5(1):3–4.
3. Shyam AK. Insights from a Personal Journey in field of Orthopaedic Research and Publications. J Orthop Case Rep. 2015 Jan-Mar;5(1):1-2.
4. Shyam AK. Predatory Journals: What are they? J Orthop Case Rep. 2015 Oct-Dec;5(4):1-2.
5. Retraction Watch – Tracking retractions as a window into the scientific process. http://retractionwatch.com/
6.Shyam AK, Shetty GM. Resurrection of the Case Report! J Orthop Case Rep. 2011 Oct-Dec;1(1):1-2.


How to Cite this article: Shyam AK, Sancheti PK. Perspective on Orthopaedic Research and Publication in India. Journal of  Clinical Orthopaedics July – Dec 2016; 1(1):3-4.

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Down Memory Lane-WIROC and BOS

Volume 1 | Issue 1 |  July – Dec 2016 | Page 2 | D. D. Tanna


Authors: D. D. Tanna [1]

[1] Lotus Clinic, Charni Road, Mumbai, India.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Dilip D Tanna
Lotus Clinic, Charni Road, Mumbai, India.
Email: ddtanna@gmail.com


The first WIROC (Western India Regional Orthopaedic Conference) was held in Mumbai in 1966. Over the years WIROC has become one of the major meetings in orthopaedics in India. It has always been well organised and a large majority of orthopaedic surgeons attend this meeting regularly. The all India meetings were becoming huge and disorganised whereas WIROC meetings continued to attract large numbers due to what they offered academically, in terms of content and excellence of their faculty. That is why WIROC became a hallmark meeting in India. The Bombay Orthopaedic Society (BOS) grew with people from Gujarat and Maharashtra joining hands with us. Hence the meeting was called Western India Regional Orthopaedic Conference as it represented the orthopaedic surgeons from all western India. In the early days the conference was held alternately in Gujarat/Maharashtra and in Mumbai, necessitating that we travel to attend WIROC. As time passed, number of orthopaedic surgeons in Gujarat and Maharashtra grew and they decided to form their own societies and organisations. BOS came in the forefront to organise the WIROC meetings, which have now become the hallmark of the society.
I have seen BOS as an organisation grow over the years and expand its boundaries. One of the major development I saw was the selection of president of BOS. Earlier in BOS the president was elected on basis of seniority. When turn of a senior member, who never used to attend BOS events came for becoming the president, the young surgeons united and objected to the rule (probably rightly). This led to the process of election for the post of BOS president. This trend continues to be followed till today and I believe it is a healthy practice for a democratic body like BOS. I feel BOS has done a wonderful job in terms of academic training and teaching. BOS is a unique organisation that holds many courses and workshops. It is probably the only city where so many courses in every speciality are been held and surgeons from all across the country come and get trained. I feel BOS has a great future with new young blood pouring into BOS affairs. I visualise that BOS will grow steadily and BOS meetings will continue to be in forefront of all meetings in India.  One of the strongest point of BOS is its unique culture, which started in the BOS monthly clinical meetings in early days of the society. Seniors and stalwarts like Dr. Talwalkar, Dr. Bhansali, Dr. Joshipura and Dr. Chaubal were very open minded and encouraged healthy discussions and arguments without any hesitations. We could bitterly yet respectfully disagree with any of our seniors. Members had and still have the freedom to express a difference of opinion and challenge a viewpoint while maintaining utmost courtesy to the speaker. This tradition has become established and appreciated by juniors and seniors alike. As BOS grew a special trend was started by Dr. S.K. Bhandhare. We would go on weekly picnics to nearby spots and enjoy each other’s company. This unique feature was enjoyed by almost 60 to 70 % of the members. This culture of excelling in academics in an atmosphere of comradeship, is a unique hallmark of BOS. I am proud to be a part of BOS and WIROC over the past years and feel confident that future generations will preserve and enhance this society.  I wish BOS and WIROC all the best, for many many years to come and I also wish the Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics great academic success.


How to Cite this article: Tanna DD. Down Memory Lane-WIROC and BOS. Journal of  Clinical Orthopaedics July – Dec 2016; 1(1):2 .

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Editorial: From the Editor-in-Chief

bos-cover-page-july-dec-2016

Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics | Vol 1 | Issue 1 |  July – Dec 2016 | page:1 | Dr. Nicholas Antao.


Author: Dr. Nicholas Antao [1]

[1] Hill Way Clinic, Hill N Dale Building, 4th Floor, Hill Road, Bandra West, Mumbai – 400050.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Nicholas Antao
Head of Dept. of Orthopaedics, Holy Spirit Hospital, Mahakali Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai – 400093 India.
Email: narantao@gmail.com


Editorial: From the Editor-in-Chief

I have a dream, a fantasy
To help me through reality
And my destination makes it worth the while
Pushing through the darkness is still another mile—–ABBA Song (1979)

The Executive managing committee of the Bombay Orthopaedic Society (BOS)had a dream, and this Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics christened as JCORTH is their reality. I am grateful and excited at the opportunity to share the dream and vision as the Editor in Chief. The untiring support of my editorial board, the contribution of the international and national authors, has seen the fruition and the first issue is in your hands. In this 21st century, we are hurtling down the highway of information and knowledge in orthopaedics, evidence based orthopaedics, newer trends , orthobiologics and use of robots. This inaugural issue carries invited articles on topics of clinical interests and other important issues in clinical orthopaedics, besides a potpourri of selected articles from different journals in various sub specialities and case reports. Newer and more expensive treatments do not necessarily guarantee better outcomes in disease specific situation, but an analysis of relevant treatment adapted to suit the patients need is tantamount to success. The “case studies” are evidence based situation, long term follow up studies are guidances to remain patient focussed, within a strong scientific background. “My journey through orthopaedics” by one of the doyens of orthopaedics is another highlight of the journal, that we hope will be a source of inspiration for us all. We at the editorial board hope, you will enjoy and benefit from reading the journal. We would appreciate your effort of sending in papers/research/case studies for publication in future issues. Your constructive criticism, observations and involvement in our endeavour, would also be valued and welcomed by the editorial board.
I sign off in the words of William Shakespeare.
“We know what we are, but know not what we may be”
We will certainly strive our best to make the journal an indexed one and will leave no stone unturned in this journey.

Dr Nicholas Antao


How to Cite this article: Antao N. Editorial.  Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics July – Dec 2016; 1(1):1.

nicolas-a


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