Abstract
Aim: To compare the outcome of primary ACL reconstruction in patients who had either an autograft or allograft ACL procedure for symptomatic instability.
Methods: 21 patients reviewed and assessed between 2 and 8 years post ACL reconstruction using patient centred scoring methods.
Results: 21 patients underwent isolated primary ACL reconstruction. 14 patients underwent reconstruction with autologous patellar tendon “bone-tendon-bone” ipsilateral graft (mean time post op 3.55 years) and 7 had “bone-tendon-bone” allografts (mean time post op 2.13 years). Both operations were performed through an open approach. Previously validated Knee Outcome Survey of the Activities of Daily Living Scale questionnaires were completed for all patients and also a single score for overall satisfaction with the outcome.
Overall levels of patient satisfaction and function were good. Testing the data with a one-sample t-test showed that donor graft patients showed higher levels of satisfaction, higher knee scores and less pain than autologous graft patients (p< 0.01).
These data suggest that although autologous grafts are more commonly performed, there is an improved outcome in the group of patients following donor grafting of the ACL.
Correspondence should be addressed to Roger Smith, Honorary Secretary, BASK c/o Royal College of Surgeons, 35 – 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN
