Which graft is better for ACL reconstruction?
The patellar tendon graft (PTG) has always been the gold standard for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Yet, most orthopedic surgeons prefer hamstring grafts for younger athletes and cadaver grafts for older patients.
Does the hamstring tendon grow back after ACL surgery?
Many patients often wonder about the outcome of a hamstring tendon, if it is used as a graft to replace the ACL. Many studies have shown that the hamstring tendon will regenerate within a year after ACL reconstruction after using the hamstring tendon as an autograft.
What two types of tendon grafts are most often used in ACL surgery?
The 2 main groups used for grafts in ACL reconstruction are allografts and autografts. The theoretical advantages of an allograft are elimination of donor site morbidity, decreased pain, shorter operating and rehabilitation times, and better cosmesis. Three autograft options are commonly used.
What is the strongest ligament in the knee?
The posterior cruciate ligament is the strongest and largest ligament in the knee. It runs diagonally down the back of your knee, connecting your femur to your tibia.
Does the gracilis tendon regenerate?
The gracilis tendon regenerated in 9 of their patients (82 %), but none inserted on the tibia [22]. Tadokoro et al. examined a larger group of 28 patients. They described a 79 % semitendinosus tendon regeneration with only 46 % of gracilis tendon regeneration.
Which hamstring tendon is used for an ACL reconstruction?
The graft used in ACL reconstruction is taken from the hamstring tendon (semitendinosus) along the inside part of the thigh and knee. Dr. Kiritsis also commonly includes a tendon just next to the semitendinousus, called the gracilis.
When is ACL hamstring graft weakest?
The graft is at its weakest at 3 to 6 months – just when the patient is beginning to regain confidence. It is therefore essential that return to proper sport is delayed until 9 months post-op.
What types of ACL tears are there?
Types of ACL injuries
- Grade 1: The ligament has sustained mild damage and been slightly stretched but can still keep the knee joint stable.
- Grade 2: The ACL is stretched and becomes loose.
- Grade 3: Commonly referred to as a complete ligament tear, the ACL is split into two pieces and the knee is unstable.
What ligaments stabilize the knee?
The four main ligaments in the knee connect the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shin bone), and include the following:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
- Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).
- Medial collateral ligament (MCL).
- Lateral collateral ligament (LCL).
What is a hamstring tendon autograft for ACL reconstruction?
The semitendinosus hamstring tendon on the inner side of the knee is used in creating the hamstring tendon autograft for ACL reconstruction. Some surgeons use an additional tendon, the gracilis, which is attached below the knee in the same area. This creates a two- or four-strand tendon graft.
What type of tendon is used for ACL reconstruction?
ACL Reconstruction with Hamstring. The semitendinosus hamstring tendon on the inner side of the knee is used in creating the hamstring tendon autograft for ACL reconstruction. Some surgeons use an additional tendon, the gracilis, which is attached below the knee in the same area. This creates a two- or four-strand tendon graft.
What happens to the hamstring muscles after ACL surgery?
The hamstring muscles sometimes atrophy (shrink) near the spot where the tendon was removed. This may explain why some studies find weakness when the hamstring muscles are tested after this kind of ACL repair. However, the changes seem to mainly occur if both the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons were used.
Is quadriceps tendon autograft a better choice for ACL reconstruction?
The use of a QT graft in ACL reconstruction leads to equal or better functional outcomes than does the use of an HT graft, without affecting morbidity. Is Quadriceps Tendon Autograft a Better Choice Than Hamstring Autograft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction? A Comparative Study With a Mean Follow-up of 3.6 Years
