[Alloplastic grafting of ligaments with carbon-fibres (author's transl)]

During several years ligaments consisting of carbon-fibres have been tested in animal experiments. Recently this material was used in humans. Until today approximately 150 patients have been operated. The late results in 65 patients with instability in 66 joints are reported. Carbon-fibre-ligaments yielded good results, provided an expert surgical technic was applied and the follow-up care was optimal. Good results were achieved on the shoulder, the knee and the lateral ankle-joint. Initially there arose some problems due to technical difficulties. By using a modified surgical technic and improvements in the follow-up care still better results can be achieved. The present study is retrospective; a prospective study has been started.