Assessment of postural stability in patients after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with LARS and autogenous graft

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to assess static balance after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), using gracialis tendons graft (GR) or semi-tendinosus (ST), compared to patients treated with the Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System (LARS). The study was performed within 36 to 48 months after the surgery. METHODS: The study included 96 patients. The LARS group consisted of 44 patients, control group operated with ST/GR tendons included 52 patients. The stabilometric platform Alpha was used to assess the static balance. Two 30-second trials in the double-leg stance position with eyes opened and closed were performed. The distribution of loads in a free standing was also assessed. RESULTS: In the test with open eyes the subjects from the LARS group had a significantly longer center of pressure (COP) path, a higher mean velocity, a greater mean COP sway in foot in the lateral direction and a larger path area occupied by the COP graph. During the tests with eyes closed, a significant difference occurred in the mean displacement of COP in lateral direction - greater in the LARS group. In addition, all parameters deteriorated during the tests with eyes closed in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: In static balance assessed with eyes closed, more proprioceptive deficits may appear in the LARS group.