Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using the Double Insertion of Semitendinosus and Gracilis Tendons (DIDT) Hamstring Technique: A Retrospective Study of 50 Cases at the Military Hospital of Nouakchott.

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a frequent cause of knee instability in young and active individuals. Reconstruction using hamstring tendon autografts offers good biomechanical stability and minimizes donor site morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes of ACL reconstruction performed in our institution using the double-bundle hamstring technique.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 50 patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using the double insertion of semitendinosus and gracilis tendons (DIDT) technique at the Military Hospital of Nouakchott, Mauritania, between January 2019 and December 2023. Demographic data, injury mechanisms, surgical details, complications, and functional outcomes were analyzed. Functional results were assessed using the Lysholm and Tegner activity scores with a minimum follow-up of 12 months.

RESULTS

The mean age was 29.3 years (range: 21-39 years), with a male predominance (90%). Sports trauma, mainly football, accounted for 60% of injuries. At final follow-up, 80% of patients achieved good or excellent functional results according to the Lysholm and Tegner scales. Postoperative complications included two superficial infections and one case of Volkmann's ischemic contracture. MRI confirmed graft integrity in 96% of patients. The average time to return to sports was eight months.

CONCLUSION

ACL reconstruction using the hamstring tendon autograft provides excellent functional recovery, high patient satisfaction, and low complication rates. This technique is particularly suitable for resource-limited settings because of its simplicity, reproducibility, and favorable outcomes.