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BPTB autografts used most frequently by NFL, NCAA physicians for ACL reconstruction
For ACL reconstruction in starting running backs, National Football League and National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I orthopedic surgeons most frequently use bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts, according to study results.
Researchers surveyed 267 NFL and NCAA Division I team orthopedic surgeons, assessing surgeon experience, graft choice, femoral tunnel drilling access, number of graft bundles and rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction. One hundred thirty-seven surgeons completed the survey.
The researchers found 86% of surgeons used bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts to treat their starting running backs. Sixty-seven percent of surgeons said they drilled the femoral tunnel through an accessory anteromedial ports, whereas 26% drilled through a transtibial portal.
According to survey results, only one surgeon preferred using a double-bundle to a single-bundle reconstruction.
When it came to returning to sport, 55.8% of surgeons recommended players wait at least 6 months, 12.3% recommended waiting 9 months and no surgeons recommended waiting 12 months or more.
Upon a player’s return to sport, 64% of surgeons do not recommend use of a brace for starting running backs, according to the researchers.
Disclosure: See the study for a full list of all authors’ relevant financial disclosures.