The biological evolution of the Leeds-Keio ligament in the human knee. A histological and ultrastructural study

The authors report their experience in the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using the Leeds-Keio ligament in 12 patients, 7 by open arthrotomy and 5 by an arthroscopic technique. The biological evolution of the new ligament was studied macroscopically and histologically in the first 6 cases treated by open arthrotomy. Arthroscopic monitoring and biopsy was carried out 4 to 10 months after operation. In 5 cases the new ligament appeared to be intact and histologically vital, with proliferation of new tissue along the new ligament. There were broken filaments of dacron hanging from the intercondylar cavity in only one case. The first macroscopic, histological and ultrastructural results show that despite a few limitations the Leeds-Keio ligament has the features required for replacement of the anterior cruciate ligament, although it will be necessary to wait 4 or 5 years before fully evaluating the durability and function of the ligament and the best operative method.