Tibial Cyst and Intra-Articular Granuloma Formation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Polylactide Carbonate Osteoconductive Interference Screws

We report a case of sterile tibial cyst and intra-articular granuloma formation of the knee 6 months after a double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bioabsorbable polylactide carbonate osteoconductive interference screws. The patient presented with increasing pain and swelling of the knee. Surgical exploration was performed, and 2 pretibial cavities were encountered, filled with remnants of the biodegradable screws and fibrinous material. Both sites underwent curettage, and the cavities were filled with allogeneic bone grafts. Arthroscopic evaluation of the knee showed an intact anterior cruciate ligament and a large granuloma formation anterior to the intercondylar notch in conjunction with the anteromedial tibial tunnel. Arthroscopic resection of the granuloma together with synovectomy was performed. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of this complication with polylactide carbonate screws.