Tensile Strength of the Achilles Tendon Allograft: A Comparative Study of Graft Preparation Technique

Background/Objectives: The Achilles tendon is a popular allograft option for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Structurally, the tendon is known to have a 90-degree rotational fiber track. Preparation techniques, with this consideration, may influence the strength of the graft. This study aims to assess the tensile strength of a novel Achilles tendon allograft harvest procedure following the rotational fiber track. Methods: Both Achilles tendons were harvested from formalin-embalmed cadavers [(n = 20), male n = 13, female n = 7, average age = 70]. Ten cadavers had the right Achilles as the control and the left Achilles as the fiber track sample; 10 cadavers had the opposing designation. Tensile strength was tested utilizing a Bose machine. An unpaired t-test was used to compare data across groups. Results: The average ultimate load for the control group was 874.17 N, with an average elastic stiffness of 76.01 N/mm. The ultimate load for the fiber track group was 807.84 N, with an average elastic stiffness of 64.75 N/mm. No statistically significant difference (p = 0.21) was determined between the average ultimate loads or elastic loads (p = 0.18) across groups. Conclusions: These data suggest that the rotational fiber track method of Achilles allograft has consistent tensile strength and elastic stiffness as compared to the common harvest procedure. The rotational fiber track method for ACL harvesting is a viable alternative option to the common harvest procedure for usage in an ACL reconstruction.