title: The basic science of anterior cruciate ligament surgery.
abstract: Surgery for ligamentous injuries of the knee continues to be one of the most common procedures performed by orthopaedists. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are addressed specifically. Basic science and laboratory research have had a dramatic effect on our understanding of the underlying pathology of the injury, and this information has been used in the development of the clinical procedures most commonly used today. The classic stages of ligament healing are contrasted with the limited potential of the ACL. Surgical options using autografts, allografts, augmentation devices, and primary repair are discussed. Present research is examined for possible future directions in the treatment of ligament injuries.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brown University School of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence.
authors.forename: M D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Boynton
authors.forename: P D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Fadale
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D001178:Arthroplasty / Q000379:methods*; D002102:Cadaver; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D010329:Patella / Q000637:transplantation; D011182:Postoperative Care; D013710:Tendons / Q000637:transplantation; D014945:Wound Healing