Arthroscopic follow-up of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using allogeneic tendon

We have made a long-term arthroscopic study of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions using cryopreserved allogeneic tendon in 49 knees. Not only the reconstructed ACL itself, but also the entire joints were arthroscopically evaluated from 18 through 59 months postoperatively. Physical examinations at the arthroscopic follow-up revealed that Lachman's sign was negative in 45 and mildly positive in 4 patients and that the pivot-shift sign was negative in 46 and mildly positive in 3 patients. ACL grafts did not show any biodegradation with time but maintained a thick and viable appearance, although 3 of the taut ones showed partial necrosis in the anterolateral part. Fibrillation of the patellofemoral articular surface was commonly found, although no patients complained of anterior knee pain. Degenerative changes were usually found in those patients who had resumed strenuous activity without their menisci being intact. Follow-up arthroscopy was useful for monitoring the overall structures inside the post-operative knees, enabling us to persuade the patients to regulate their activity on the basis of objective evidence.