[Reconstruction of the cruciate ligaments with allogeneic transplants. Techniques, results and perspectives]

The authors have used allografts for reconstruction of the cruciate ligaments in over 600 cases since 1985. Advantages are the reduced operative trauma and the unlimited availability of high-quality grafts even in multiple ligament reconstructions. Arthroscopic techniques are available for reconstruction of the anterior and the posterior cruciate ligament, which makes arthrotomies and large skin incisions unnecessary. The grafts of choice are the bone-patellar tendon-bone preparation and the Achilles tendon with bone bloc. No specific complications were observed with the use of allograft material in this series. Results show a high subjective acceptance of the procedure among the patients, with a high rate of return to pre-injury sports activities following ACL reconstruction. Objective stability was restored in over 70% of these cases. All cases with posterior instability had 3+ posterior drawer preoperatively. At follow-up, almost normal stability had been restored in 50%. Further research must focus on the biological processes that take place during incorporation of these tissues and on better techniques of graft processing and sterilisation. At present, the risk of disease transmission must be considered and discussed with the patient.