Biomechanical Analysis of Autologous Graft Configurations for Knee Ligament Reconstruction: A Cadaveric Study
M.B.G. Lopes, C.P. Helito, S.M.D.G. Canuto, R. Clazzer, D.A. De Lima, C.E.D.S. FrancioziObjective:
To biomechanically evaluate and compare different autologous graft configurations used for knee ligament reconstruction in a cadaveric experimental model.
Methods:
A biomechanical experimental study was conducted using 58 grafts harvested from 12 knees of six young male cadavers (mean age ~35 years). Tested grafts included full-thickness quadriceps tendon without bone plug, peroneus longus tendon, braided and parallel hamstrings, patellar tendon, rectus femoris tendon, and iliotibial band. All grafts underwent axial tensile testing using a universal electromechanical testing machine (EMIC DL 10000) at a constant displacement rate of 10 mm/min until failure or fixation slippage.
Results:
The full-thickness quadriceps tendon demonstrated the highest mean ultimate load to failure (2302.92 ± 79.68 N), followed by the peroneus longus tendon (1991.33 ± 160.29 N). Hamstring, patellar, and rectus femoris grafts showed tensile strengths comparable to those reported for the native anterior cruciate ligament (~1700–2000 N). The iliotibial band exhibited significantly lower strength (749.13 ± 155.40 N). Braided hamstring constructs showed a non-significant increase in strength compared with parallel configurations (p = 0.2967).
Conclusion:
Except for the iliotibial band, all evaluated autografts demonstrated biomechanical adequacy for primary knee ligament reconstruction. The iliotibial band should be reserved for extra-articular reinforcement procedures.