Arthroscopic repair and augmentation of the anterior cruciate ligament in cadaver knees.
An experimental method for arthroscopic repair and augmentation of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) was designed by experiments on fresh cadaver specimens. The procedure was performed arthroscopically. No arthrotomy or patellar dislocation was necessary. Established principles of ACL surgery were strictly applied, e.g., placement of holes; internal splinting; preservation of blood supply; utilization of ACL remnants at the tibial attachment. As much of the normal anatomy of the knee as possible was preserved, and some of the undesirable features of major knee surgery were avoided. With further research and development of materials (e.g., an implantable hook and either freeze-dried fascia or biodegradable suture for the internal splint), the described technical ideas have potential application as an effective arthroscopic procedure for the treatment of ACL deficiency.
D001182:Arthroscopy; D005206:Fascia Lata / Q000637:transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D008722:Methods; D013848:Thigh