Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Patellar Tendon Autograft and Bioresorbable Interference Screws

Abstract

Material and Method: Bioresorbable and biostable interference screws in operative reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures were compared concerning safety and efficacy. The randomized prospective clinical study consisted of 2 groups with 15 patients each, admitted at our center with acute (< 8 weeks) traumatic loss of ACL-stability. The ACL-reconstruction was performed in open technique using a bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft and fixation with bioresorbable (study group) or titanium (control group) interference screws.

Results: Employing a special questionnaire patients' satisfaction was recorded. Functional results were scored using clinical examination and the Lachman test under sonographic control. Foreign-body reactions against the implants were assessed by clinical examinations and on radiographs. The follow-up of all patients was at least for 2 years. Ligament stability of the knee joint, operative and postoperative complication rate did not significantly differ between the two groups. 14 patients of the study group and 13 patients of the control group were completely satisfied. One patient of the study group was dissatisfied because of developing an infection.

Conclusion: The results using bioresorbable interference screws in ACL-reconstruction are identic to those employing standard titanium implants. Differences in rates of operative and postoperative complications were not statistically significant. The advantages of the bioresorbable implants include the absence of urgent implant removal in case of secondary ACL-reconstruction procedures and undisturbed MRI and CT scans postoperatively.