The natural history of the intercondylar notch after notchplasty

Ten patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by one surgeon using autologous patellar tendon grafts were evaluated. A standardized technique of performing a notchplasty was done to remove at least 5 mm of bone at the anterior outlet of the intercondylar notch. Computed tomography scans were done preoperatively, within 1 week postoperatively, and after 1 year of follow-up. There were no statistically significant differences in the measured dimensions of the intercondylar notch between 1 week and 1 year postoperatively. While previous investigations have evaluated the relationship between intercondylar notch dimensions and risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury, we believe this is the first statistical study that addresses the natural history of the intercondylar notch in humans after bone resection. We believe that the data reported here may enhance our understanding and treatment of patients who have undergone previously failed anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions.