Abstract
The study was established to assess the long-term results and differences between autogenous and synthetic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.
We randomised 50 patients into 2 groups: 26 (52%) underwent reconstruction with middle third patellar tendon graft (PTG) harvested using the ‘ Graftologer ‘ (Neoligaments), and 24 (48%) underwent reconstruction with the Leeds-Keio ligament (LK).
Subjective knee function was assessed using the Lysholm score, Tegner activity score, IKDC grading, and clinical assessment of anterior knee pain. Laxity was tested clinically, including anterior draw at 20° (Lachman), pivot shift, and arthrometric measurements using the Stryker laxometer.
At five years we have noted a slight reduction in Lysholm scoring in the LK group, as well as reduced Tegner activity level. Pivot shift and laxity were significantly greater in the LK group.
Compared with earlier results, which showed little subjective difference between the groups, the autogenous PTG group show more sustainable long-term results than the synthetic (LK) group. There is no significant difference in anterior knee symptoms between the groups.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Roger Smith. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the British Association for Surgery of the Knee, c/o BOA, Royal College of Surgeons of England, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN.
