ACL Reconstruction Using the BTB Technique with PEEK Implants

Preparation

Before surgery, each patient requires an individual orthopaedic assessment and diagnostic evaluation.

ACL reconstruction using the BTB technique may be considered in cases of:

• anterior cruciate ligament rupture,
• knee instability,
• a sensation of the knee “giving way” during movement,
• sports-related injuries,
• desire to return to a higher level of physical activity.

The BTB technique is particularly popular among active individuals and patients seeking high post-operative knee stability.

The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s anatomy, activity level, type of injury, functional expectations, and treatment goals.

Before deciding on surgery, the orthopaedic specialist assesses knee stability, diagnostic imaging, activity needs, and the patient’s expectations regarding return to everyday activities or sport.

Convalescence

Recovery after ACL reconstruction requires a structured rehabilitation programme and gradual progression of activity.

Rehabilitation typically includes:

• restoration of range of motion,
• rebuilding muscle strength,
• improving stability and movement control,
• preparation for returning to sports or physical activity.

Most patients are able to resume everyday activities within several weeks, while a full return to sports may require several months of dedicated rehabilitation.

The pace of recovery depends on the quality of knee stabilisation, healing progress, rehabilitation process, type of sport practiced, and the patient’s individual physical condition.

The decision to return to sports is always made individually and based on a comprehensive assessment of knee function.

Precautions

The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so the patient does not experience pain during surgery.

After the procedure, patients may experience:

• temporary pain,
• swelling of the knee joint,
• a feeling of tightness around the knee.

The intensity of symptoms depends on the extent of the procedure and the individual healing response.

Treatment outcomes depend on both a properly performed surgical procedure and a well-structured rehabilitation programme.

A safe return to sport or demanding physical activity should always be based on individual medical assessment, knee function, stability, and rehabilitation progress.

Benefits

The primary goal of ACL reconstruction using the BTB technique with PEEK implants is to restore knee stability and improve joint function.

Potential benefits include:

• improved control of the knee joint,
• reduced feelings of instability,
• return to everyday activities,
• possibility of returning to sports participation,
• protection of the joint from further damage,
• excellent graft stability,
• strong bone-to-bone integration,
• high mechanical strength of the reconstruction.

The use of PEEK implants allows secure graft fixation, appropriate load transfer within the joint, precise ligament stabilisation, and support for graft healing and integration with bone.

Appropriate treatment selection, surgical precision, and a well-managed rehabilitation programme are essential factors influencing the final outcome and safe return to physical activity.

What is ACL reconstruction using the BTB technique?

ACL reconstruction using the BTB technique is a surgical procedure performed to restore knee stability after anterior cruciate ligament rupture.

The procedure uses the patient’s own tissue graft and is performed arthroscopically through small incisions.

What does BTB ACL reconstruction involve?

The BTB, or Bone-Tendon-Bone, technique involves reconstructing the ACL using an autograft harvested from the patient’s own body.

The graft consists of a section of tendon and two bone blocks harvested together with the tendon graft.

This allows secure fixation within the bone tunnels and supports durable bone-to-bone healing.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed arthroscopically through small incisions using a camera inserted into the knee joint.

The surgeon reconstructs the damaged ACL using the BTB graft and stabilises it with PEEK implants.

The aim is to restore knee stability, improve joint function, and support safe return to activity.

What are the advantages of the BTB technique?

The BTB technique is considered one of the reliable ACL reconstruction methods, especially for physically active patients.

Its advantages include excellent graft stability, strong bone-to-bone integration, precise restoration of ligament function, and high mechanical strength of the reconstruction.

What are PEEK implants?

PEEK implants are advanced biomaterials used in orthopaedic surgery for ligament graft fixation.

They are characterised by high mechanical strength, excellent biocompatibility, mechanical properties similar to bone, and resistance to loads experienced within the knee joint.

Why are PEEK implants used?

PEEK implants are used to provide secure graft fixation, appropriate load transfer within the joint, precise ligament stabilisation, and support for graft healing and integration with bone.

They are commonly used in advanced reconstructive procedures requiring long-term stability and durability.

When is BTB ACL reconstruction considered?

The procedure may be considered in cases of ACL rupture, knee instability, a sensation of the knee giving way, sports-related injuries, and a desire to return to a higher level of physical activity.

The BTB technique is often selected for active individuals and patients seeking strong post-operative knee stability.

What are the goals of the procedure?

The main goals are to restore knee stability, improve joint function, reduce feelings of instability, support return to everyday activities, enable return to sports participation, and protect the knee from further damage.

Is the procedure painful?

The operation is performed under anaesthesia, so the patient does not experience pain during surgery.

After the procedure, temporary pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness around the knee may occur. The intensity of symptoms depends on the extent of the procedure and the individual healing response.

What does recovery look like?

Recovery requires a structured rehabilitation programme and gradual progression of activity.

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion, rebuilding muscle strength, improving stability and movement control, and preparing the patient for return to sports or physical activity.

Can patients return to sports after ACL reconstruction?

In many cases, yes.

Return to sports depends on the type of sport practiced, quality of knee stabilisation, rehabilitation progress, and individual physical condition.

The decision is always made individually after a comprehensive assessment of knee function.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients can resume everyday activities within several weeks.

A full return to sports may require several months of dedicated rehabilitation, depending on healing progress, knee function, and the physical demands of the activity.