Stratifying the mechanical performance of a decellularized xenogeneic tendon graft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction as a function of graft diameter: An animal study

Bone & Joint Research

article

Samuel Whitaker¹  Jennifer H. Edwards²  Stephen Guy³  Eileen Ingham²  Anthony Herbert² 

[1] Leeds General Infirmary;Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, University of Leeds;Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

关键词: Anterior cruciate ligament;    Reconstruction;    Decellularized;   

DOI  :  10.1302/2046-3758.811.BJR-2019-0065.R1

学科分类：骨科学

来源: British Editorial Society Of Bone And Joint Surgery

【 摘 要 】

ObjectivesThis study investigated the biomechanical performance of decellularized porcine superflexor tendon (pSFT) grafts of varying diameters when utilized in conjunction with contemporary ACL graft fixation systems. This aimed to produce a range of ‘off-the-shelf’ products with predictable mechanical performance, depending on the individual requirements of the patient.MethodsDecellularized pSFTs were prepared to create double-bundle grafts of 7 mm, 8 mm, and 9 mm diameter. Femoral and tibial fixation systems were simulated utilizing Arthrex suspension devices and interference screws in bovine bone, respectively. Dynamic stiffness and creep were measured, followed by ramp to failure from which linear stiffness and load at failure were measured. The mechanisms of failure were also recorded.ResultsDynamic stiffness was found to increase with greater graft diameter, with significant differences between all groups. Conversely, dynamic creep reduced with increasing graft diameter with significant differences between the 7 mm and 9 mm groups and the 8 mm and 9 mm groups. Significant differences were also found between the 7 mm, 8 mm, and 9 mm groups for linear stiffness, but no significant differences were found between groups for load at failure. The distribution of failure mechanisms was found to change with graft diameter.ConclusionThis study showed that decellularized pSFTs demonstrate comparable biomechanical properties to other ACL graft options and are a potentially viable option for ACL reconstruction. Although grafts can be stratified by their diameter to provide varying biomechanical properties, it may be more appropriate to alter the fixation technique to stratify for a greater diversity of biomechanical requirements.

【 授权许可】

CC BY-NC