Scientific justification and technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using autogenous and allogeneic soft-tissue grafts.
The DLSTG is the strongest and stiffest autogenous graft source available for reconstruction of the torn anterior cruciate ligament. Harvest morbidity is low compared with other autogenous graft sources, such as the patellar bone-tendon-bone graft. Soft-tissue allografts provide an excellent alternative for patients requiring revision surgery or for patients who want to avoid any morbidity associated with autogenous graft harvest. Successful use of any soft-tissue graft source, however, relies on precise placement of the tibial and femoral tunnels to prevent roof and PCL impingement and to restore tensile behavior in the graft tissue similar to the native ACL. The use of high-strength, high-stiffness fixation devices that secure the graft at the end of the tunnel promote tendon tunnel healing, restore stability without high graft tensioning, and allow safe, aggressive rehabilitation. The Bone Mulch Screw/WasherLoc screw system provides the surgeon with a consistent, reproducible technique that restores stability and function to the ACL-deficient knee using a soft-tissue graft in both males and females.
Uniformed Services, University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA. keith.lawhorn@mgmc.af.mil
Keith W
KW
Lawhorn
Stephen M
SM
Howell
D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery*; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D006801:Humans; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D013710:Tendons / Q000637:transplantation*; D020858:Tissue and Organ Harvesting / Q000379:methods; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous; D014184:Transplantation, Homologous