[Alloplastic replacement of the anterior cruciate ligament in chronic instability--indications and technic]

Since August 1980, missing or no longer present cruciate ligament structures have been replaced in many patients suffering from chronic instability of knee-joint ligaments, by an implanted ligament made from Trevira hochfest. 158 operations of this kind were supervised by the author. Although results have been good so far, the indication for such an operation should be extremely restricted. The isolated replacement of the anterior cruciate ligaments in chronic instability is an ideal application field. Detailed attention is given to the implantation technique aiming at restoring permanent stability.