Evaluating the Efficacy of Peroneus Longus Tendon as an Autograft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Indian Female Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent, especially among active individuals, and are increasingly observed even in Indian women who are not active in sports. ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is commonly performed using various graft options, but optimal choices for women remain debated. The aim of our study was to examine the use of the peroneus longus tendon as an autograft for ACLR in Indian female patients. Materials and methods A prospective cohort study was carried out on 44 non-athlete female patients who met the inclusion criteria. The study evaluates functional outcomes using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm-Tegner, and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, as well as knee stability through clinical tests, over a one-year postoperative period. Results The study demonstrates significant improvements in knee function, with substantial increases in IKDC and Lysholm-Tegner scores from preoperative levels (p-value < 0.01), and effective restoration of knee stability, as shown by improved Lachman, Anterior Drawer, and Pivot Shift test results. Moreover, the peroneus longus graft had minimal impact on ankle morbidity, as indicated by consistent AOFAS scores before and after surgery. Conclusion The study highlights the peroneus longus tendon as a viable graft option for ACLR in symptomatic Indian female patients who were not active in sports, offering both mechanical strength and favorable functional outcomes without affecting the ankle strength or the function.