The ACL study group is a small specially selected group of Orthopaedic Surgeons dedicated to advancement, understanding and research into the management of Anterior Cruciate Ligament injuries of the knee. The group is comprised of the top 80 ACL surgeons from around the world. The group meets once every two years to present and discuss the latest research and developments in ACL ligament research from around the world.
David Johnson is the longest standing member from the UK. He stated “the group comprises surgeons from all over the world who meet bi-annually to compare notes, to present latest thinking and research ideas. I always come away with a new insights and with a greater understanding of all the latest surgical techniques and their effectiveness around the world”
The 5 day meeting included lectures, research presentations, surgical demonstrations and anatomical laboratory study. The topics discussed included the latest results on the successful return to sport with the different methods of ACL reconstruction: hamstring tendon, double bundle hamstring tendon and Bone-Patellar tendon-Bone reconstruction. Analysis of the importance of positioning of the graft in respect of the standard position, the anatomical position and the microscopic ultra-structure of the collagen fibrils which make up the normal anatomical ACL ligament insertion.
David Johnson reported, “many of the new ideas regarding double bundle hamstring grafts and the positioning of the graft are now being better understood. New clinical results and data are casting doubts on some of these modifications and new techniques for ACL ligament reconstruction.” A full up to date understanding of all the research from around the world enables me to better understand what will and what will not work for the individual patient.”
