Arthroscopic and histologic evaluation of anterior cruciate ligaments reconstructed with the Leeds-Keio ligament.

Abstract

In 62 of the patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with the Leeds-Keio (L-K) artificial ligament, we performed an arthroscopic second look and biopsy of the reconstructed ACL at 8-36 months postoperatively. Arthroscopic findings were classified into two groups according to the tautness of the ligament and the coverage of the implanted L-K ligament with synovial tissue. Histologic results were classified into three groups according to the orientation of the collagen fibers around the L-K ligament, and the arrangement and morphology of the cells. Although our results demonstrated that the implanted L-K ligament had the capacity for tissue induction, no statistically significant correlation was observed between any two results among the arthroscopic, histologic, and clinical data. Therefore, within the time span of our experiment, we could not conclude that the L-K ligament functioned as a scaffold type of artificial ligament. More convincing results must be attained before any firm recommendation can be made for the use of the L-K ligament as a substitute ACL over the autograft or allograft.