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Isolated autogenous bone-patellar tendon-bone graft site morbidity
R A Rubinstein1, K D Shelbourne, C D VanMeter
1Methodist Sports Medicine Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Isolated patellar tendon graft harvest for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction shows minimal, reversible morbidity. Donor knee function and strength largely recover within two years, with rare long-term issues.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction often utilizes autogenous patellar tendon grafts.
- Assessing donor site morbidity is crucial for patient outcomes.
- Distinguishing graft harvest morbidity from ACL reconstruction morbidity is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the morbidity associated with isolated patellar tendon graft harvest.
- To quantify donor knee morbidity in patients undergoing contralateral ACL reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- Studied 20 patients with isolated contralateral patellar tendon graft harvest.
- Monitored donor knee function from pre-operation to 5-year follow-up.
- Assessed range of motion, quadriceps strength, and subjective outcomes.
Main Results:
- Full knee range of motion regained by 3 weeks post-surgery.
- Quadriceps strength returned to 95% of pre-operative levels by 2 years.
- Activity-related soreness (patellar tendinitis) resolved within 1 year; no patellofemoral pain reported.
Conclusions:
- Isolated autogenous patellar tendon graft harvest results in short-term, largely reversible morbidity.
- Contralateral graft harvest minimizes confounding factors of ACL reconstruction on donor site outcomes.