Achilles Tendon-bone Allograft Research Articles

Proximal humerus reconstruction in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with proximal humeral bone loss using a lower trapezius tendon transfer with Achilles tendon-bone allograft: surgical technique and report of 2 cases

Proximal humerus reconstruction in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with proximal humeral bone loss using a lower trapezius tendon transfer with Achilles tendon-bone allograft: surgical technique and report of 2 cases

Outcomes After Superior Capsular Reconstruction With an Achilles Tendon–Bone Allograft Using the Modified Keyhole Technique: A 2-Year Follow-up of a Novel Technique for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

Background: Despite improved outcomes, failure or nonhealing of graft materials has been reported after superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Purpose: To evaluate the short-term clinical and radiological outcomes of a novel technique for SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft with the modified keyhole technique and who had a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The visual analog scale score for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Constant score were evaluated as subjective outcomes, while range of motion of the shoulder joint and isokinetic strength were evaluated as objective outcomes. The acromiohumeral interval (AHI), bone-to-bone healing of the allograft and humeral head on computed tomography, and graft integrity on magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated as radiological outcomes. Results: This study included 32 patients with a mean age of 56.8 ± 4.2 years and a mean follow-up of 28.4 ± 6.2 months. A significant improvement from preoperatively to the last follow-up was seen in the mean visual analog scale score for pain (from 6.7 to 1.8), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (from 42.7 to 83.8), Constant score (from 47.2 to 78.5), and AHI (from 4.8 to 8.2 mm) ( P < .001 for all) as well as range of motion in forward elevation and internal rotation ( P < .001 for both). Medial-to-lateral graft integrity was good in all patients. Nonunion at the fitting zone of the keyhole on the greater tuberosity was diagnosed in 1 case (3.1%), and failure of incorporation between the allograft and remnant tendon at the site of posterior margin convergence was observed in 4 cases (12.5%). Conclusion: The outcomes after SCR using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft and the keyhole technique improved, with an increased AHI and excellent integrity in the medial and lateral directions compared with preoperatively. This technique is a reasonable option for the surgical treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Achilles Tendon-Bone Allograft is Advantageous for Chronic Patellar Tendon Ruptures Using a Modified Fixation Technique

Objectives: A patellar tendon rupture is an extremely disabling extensor mechanism injury. This follow-up study describes the clinical and radiologic outcomes of a new modified technique for reconstructing chronic patellar tendon ruptures. Materials and Methods: From 2014 to 2018, we reconstructed 15 chronic patellar tendon ruptures using Achilles tendon-bone allograft. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and during the final follow-up, 2 to 7 years after reconstruction. Assessments involved the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm, and Kujala scores, as well as quadriceps muscle strength and extension lag. Radiologic results were evaluated using the Insall-Salvati index on plain radiography and allograft integration through magnetic resonance imaging. Results: At the final follow-up, the Lysholm, IKDC, and Kujala scores improved by 57, 58, and 54 points, respectively (P<0.001). The average quadriceps muscle strength improved from 2.6 (2 to 3) before the operation to 4.6 (4 to 5) at the final follow-up (P<0.001). The extension lag also improved significantly from 31.7 degrees (25 to 40) to 0.6 degrees (0 to 10). The preoperative Insall-Salvati index was 1.6 (1.5 to 1.9), which improved significantly to 1.2 (1 to 1.3) postoperatively (P<0.001). Two years after the operation, magnetic resonance imaging showed good allograft integration in all pateints. Conclusion: Combining an Achilles tendon-bone allograft with a robust fixation method led to favorable clinical and radiologic outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV.

Arthroscopic-Assisted Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Massive Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears Using an Achilles Tendon-Bone Allograft

The lower trapezius tendon (LTT) transfer has been described for the management of irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Here we describe our technique of an arthroscopic-assisted LTT transfer using an Achilles tendon-bone allograft. This technique allows for augmentation of the tendon transfer using an Achilles tendon allograft while also keeping the calcaneal bone insertion, which allows for added bony fixation into the humerus and also minimizing the risk of the "killer turn" phenomenon at the aperture of fixation.

Arthroscopic Superior Capsular Reconstruction by the Mini-Open Modified Keyhole Technique Using an Achilles Tendon–Bone Allograft

The treatment of massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears remains a challenge for shoulder surgeons. When treating patients with chronic rotator cuff tears, especially those with severe fatty degeneration, severe tendon retraction, or muscle atrophy, the risk of re-tear and persistent severe pain persists. Therefore, surgeons can choose from numerous options. Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) was introduced as a technique to maintain the stability of the upper shoulder and stabilize the muscles without repairing the supraspinatus and infraspinatus. Various autograft and allograft techniques have been developed. SCR performed using an autograft has the disadvantage of requiring harvesting the tensor fascia lata. Although allografts reduce harvest time, they also increase donor-site morbidity and the time required for healing. To solve the healing problem, we have introduced an SCR technique through grafting with the Achilles tendon–bone. Although this is an unproven technique for patients with chronic irreparable rotator cuff tears, our short-term outcomes seem promising. Further studies and follow-ups are needed to determine the success of this technique.

Survivorship of allograft ACL reconstruction in adolescent patients

PurposeThe overall benefits of ACL reconstructive surgery in young athletes has been previously established. Graft selection for ACL reconstruction, specifically in this population however, remains controversial. The literature is limited and long-term survival rate of allograft ACL reconstruction in the adolescent population remains poorly defined. Current evidence, none level I, appears to demonstrate increased failure and subsequent revision rates in allograft reconstruction of complete ACL tears compared to autograft; 7–35% compared to 3–13% respectively. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate revision rate and functional outcomes of allograft ACL reconstruction in the adolescent population at extended follow-up. MethodsA retrospective chart review was performed. Forty patients who underwent transphyseal ACL reconstruction with either bone patellar tendon bone (BTB) or Achilles tendon bone (ATB) allograft performed by a single surgeon over a 12-year period were identified. Demographic and surgical details were analyzed. Enrolled patients completed a Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and a Tegner Activity Level Scale during phone interviews. All secondary surgeries performed on the ipsilateral knee were recorded. ResultsTwenty-five patients were enrolled; fifteen were lost to follow-up. There were ten male and fifteen female patients included for analysis. Average age at index surgery was 16 years (range 13–18 years). BTB allograft was used for seven patients, and ATB allograft was used for the remaining eighteen patients. Average follow-up was 54 months (range 13–136 months). The average Lysholm score at follow-up was 87 (range 57–100). The average Tegner score at follow-up was 6.8 (range 3–10). Three patients underwent revision ACL surgery (12% study group, 7.5% all) for traumatic re-rupture. Re-rupture occurred 12, 13 and 38 months after index surgery. ConclusionsAutograft remains the standard for ACL reconstruction in the general pediatric population. In the adolescent population, however, the use of BTB or ATB allograft is a reasonable alternative with satisfactory outcomes, decreased harvest site morbidity, decreased post-operative pain and faster rehabilitation. The traumatic re-rupture rate in this series was similar to previously published traumatic failure rates in young adult athletes after reconstruction with autologous tissue (11–13%). Further prospective studies are needed to determine any true difference in the use of either allograft or autograft in the adolescent population.

Graft Selection in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction for Smoking Patients

Background: There has been no previous study regarding graft selection in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction for smoking patients. Purpose: To compare the clinical outcomes of ACL reconstruction between smokers and nonsmokers and to find an optimal graft in ACL reconstruction with regard to clinical outcomes for smoking patients. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 487 patients who underwent unilateral ACL reconstruction were retrospectively reviewed. Included patients were divided into 2 groups according to their history of smoking. Group 1 was composed of patients who had never smoked (n = 322), and group 2 consisted of patients who had reported smoking before ACL reconstruction and during rehabilitation (n = 165). Additionally, each group was divided into 4 subgroups according to the selected graft type (bone–patellar tendon–bone autograft, hamstring [semitendinosus-gracilis] tendon autograft, quadriceps tendon–bone autograft, or Achilles tendon–bone allograft). Patients were assessed for knee instability with the Lachman and pivot-shift tests as well as anterior translation measured by the KT-2000 arthrometer. Functional outcomes were evaluated with the Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, and IKDC objective grade. Results: The minimum follow-up period was 24 months. At the final follow-up evaluation, there were significant mean between-group differences regarding the side-to-side difference in anterior translation (group 1, 2.15 ± 1.11 mm; group 2, 2.88 ± 1.38 mm; P < .001), Lysholm knee score (group 1, 90.25 ± 6.18; group 2, 84.79 ± 6.67; P < .001), IKDC subjective score (group 1, 89.16 ± 5.01; group 2, 83.60 ± 7.48; P < .001), and IKDC objective grade (group 1, grade A = 151, B = 130, C = 36, D = 5 patients; group 2, grade A = 48, B = 71, C = 37, D = 9 patients; P < .001). With regard to differences in outcomes between the selected grafts within each group, the Achilles tendon–bone allograft showed the worst outcomes, with statistically significant mean differences for smoking patients in the side-to-side difference in anterior translation (3.59 ± 1.26 mm), Lysholm knee score (81.05 ± 2.82), and IKDC subjective score (79.73 ± 4.29). Conclusion: Unsatisfactory outcomes with regard to stability and functional scores were shown in the smoking group compared with the nonsmoking group. In smokers, the patients receiving an Achilles tendon–bone allograft had poorer outcomes than those with autografts. The bone–patellar tendon–bone autograft is recommendable for ACL reconstruction in a smoking patient.

Clinical Comparisons of the Anatomical Reconstruction and Modified Biceps Rerouting Technique for Chronic Posterolateral Instability Combined with Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

The purpose of this study was to describe a one-stage operation for posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with use of an Achilles tendon-bone allograft and a posterolateral corner reconstruction with use of two different methods, with a comparison of clinical outcomes in the two groups. Our study included forty-six patients who had undergone posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with use of an Achilles tendon-bone allograft and posterolateral corner reconstruction with either anatomical reconstruction of the lateral collateral ligament and popliteus tendon with use of a tibialis posterior tendon allograft (twenty-one patients; Group A) or the modified biceps rerouting tenodesis (twenty-five patients; Group B) in an alternating fashion. Patients were assessed for knee instability with use of the dial test at 30° and 90°, together with varus and posterior stress radiography. At the two-year follow-up evaluation, although no significant difference was found on posterior stress radiography (mean and standard error, 5.7 ± 0.4 mm for Group A compared with 4.8 ± 0.4 mm for Group B), Group A showed more improvement than Group B on the dial test (16° ± 1° vs. 13° ± 1° at 30° and 17° ± 1° vs. 14° ± 1° at 90°; p = 0.001 for both) and varus stress radiography (3.6 ± 0.3 mm vs. 2.6 ± 0.3 mm; p = 0.024), in the Lysholm (29.5 ± 2.4 vs. 22.3 ± 2.3; p = 0.037) and the International Knee Documentation Committee knee scores (p = 0.041), and less terminal flexion loss (4.0° ± 1.2° vs. 8.8° ± 1.3°; p = 0.013). Combined with posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, anatomical posterolateral corner reconstruction of the popliteus tendon and lateral collateral ligament showed better outcomes compared with the modified biceps rerouting tenodesis, although the mean differences of varus and external rotatory stability between the groups were relatively small. However, the overall difference might have been reduced by the negative value caused by overcorrection in Group B. This study demonstrated that anatomical posterolateral corner reconstruction is a reliable alternative method in addressing posterolateral corner and posterior cruciate ligament insufficiency of the knee, a finding that ideally should be tested in a randomized controlled trial.

Reconstruction of a patellar tendon with Achilles tendon allograft for severe patellar infera — A case report

Severe patellar infera accompanied by pathologic shortening and fibrosis of the patellar tendon is relatively an uncommmon condition but can cause recalcitrant joint stiffness and limited range of motion after knee surgery or injury. This report presents a case of a 49-year-old male with severe patellar infera and limping due to joint stiffness after three-time knee surgeries. We report a successful outcome along with a finding of the well-healed allograft after the reconstruction of a patellar tendon using Achilles tendon-bone allograft.

Concurrent arthroscopic bicruciate ligament reconstruction using Achilles tendon-bone allografts: experience with 15 cases

To evaluate the clinical outcome of arthroscopically assisted combined anterior and posterior cruciate ligament (ACL/PCL) reconstructions using Achilles tendon-bone allografts. Associated meniscus injuries were treated according to established methods prior to ligament reconstructions during arthroscopic surgery. Thirty Achilles tendon-bone allografts were used to reconstruct torn ACL and PCL in 15 knees. At postoperative follow-up, all knees were graded using the modified IKDC and the Lysholm scoring systems just as done preoperatively. were analyzed compared with the contralateral healthy knees. Results: Eleven men and 4 women with a minimum of 3-year follow-up (mean 38 months) were included in the study. Preoperatively, the group ratings by the modified IKDC standards were all severely abnormal. Twelve bicruciate reconstructions were performed in subacute or chronic stage (larger than 3-8 weeks), 3 for acute ligamentous deficiencies (less than or equal to 3 weeks). The noticeable early complication was transitory local fever combined with joint effusion in one case. At postoperative follow-up, 9 knees were normal, 5 nearly normal and 1 abnormal. On Lysholm score the difference was statistically significant (t- test, P less than 0.001) before and after operation. Achilles tendon-bone allograft offers an alternative for simultaneous arthroscopic ACL/PCL reconstructions. However, further investigation is needed to eradicate its potential immunogenicity for better use.

Use of Achilles Tendon-Bone Allograft for Reconstruction of the Patellar Tendon in Patients With Severe Disruption of the Extensor Mechanism of the Knee: A Case Report

Bermúdez, Carlos A. MD; Ziran, Bruce H. MD; Barrette-Grischow, Mary-Kate MPH Author Information

Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament Using Tibial-Inlay and Double-Bundle Technique

Biomechanical research has suggested that the double-bundle and tibial inlay technique is superior to the single-bundle and the transtibial tunnel method for posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. A combination the posterior tibial inlay and femoral double-bundle technique is thought to be an ideal method for PCL reconstruction. Recently, we successfully performed arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using the tibial-inlay and double-bundle technique. Achilles tendon–bone allograft is used and the bone plug for the arthroscopic tibial inlay fixation is designed in a cylindrical shape and perpendicular to the fiber texture of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon is manually split into deep and superficial layers to reconstruct anterolateral and posteromedial bundles as the natural insertion of PCL. The intra-articular lengths of each bundle between tibial tunnel and 2 femoral tunnels are measured to achieve fixation of the graft to the original PCL attachment. After tibial bone plug fixation with an absorbable interference screw and additional suture anchoring, the anterolateral bundle is fixed in a reduction position with the knee in 90° of flexion and the posteromedial bundle is fixed nearly in extension. This procedure makes it possible not only to reproduce the original concept of PCL tibial inlay graft arthroscopically without posterior arthrotomy, but also to achieve a more anatomic PCL reconstruction of the 2 bundles.

Arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament tibial inlay reconstruction.

Tibial inlay posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction was developed to avoid "killer turn" of the tibial tunnel. It requires a surgical dissection to popliteal fossa and changing of the patient's position during operation. We report an arthroscopic tibial inlay PCL reconstruction technique to avoid morbidity from an open procedure. Achilles tendon-bone allograft was used for reconstruction, and bone plug was designed in a cylindrical shape vertical to the tendon direction for tibial fixation. The intra-articular length of PCL is measured, and the proximal graft is prepared with a whipstitch and an EndoPearl (Linvatec, Largo, FL) is connected for enhancing femoral fixation. After tibial graft fixation with an absorbable interference screw, tibial site fixation was reinforced with suture anchoring to a washer on the anterolateral surface of the tibia. Femoral fixation was done with another screw. It was possible to reproduce the original concept of PCL tibial inlay graft with our arthroscopic technique.

Treatment of the unstable total hip arthroplasty using modularity, soft tissue, and allograft reconstruction

This is a retrospective analysis of a stepwise approach to the treatment of the unstable total hip arthroplasty. Thirty-two hips in 32 patients were analyzed 9 months to 7 years (average, 3.6 years) after reoperation for instability. Half of the patients underwent revisions of primary total hip arthroplasties, and the other half underwent multiple procedures. Of the patients, 26 dislocated posteriorly, 4 dislocated anteriorly, and 2 were multidirectional. The commonest cause for the dislocation was soft tissue deficiency (n = 17). Other common causes included anterior soft tissue impingement (n = 10), unsatisfactory head-to-neck ratio (n = 5), hypoanteversion of the socket (n = 4), and deficient abductor mechanism (n = 4). Multiple causes were present in 75% of the patients, with a combination of 2 (48%) or ≥3 (28%) factors of instability. Management of the instability by addressing the soft tissue and modification of modular components was successful in 25 patients and unsuccessful in 1 patient. Three unstable hips were treated successfully with an innovative soft tissue augmentation using an Achilles tendon–bone allograft.

Achilles allograft reconstruction of a chronic patellar tendon rupture

Chronic ruptures of the patellar tendon are uncommon injuries. They are technically difficult to repair because of scar formation, poor quality of the remaining tendon, and quadriceps muscle atrophy and contracture. We report the reconstruction of a chronic patellar tendon rupture with an interesting complication, a tibial stress fracture. The reconstruction was performed 3 months after the injury using an Achilles tendon-bone allograft and reinforcing suprapatellar wire. At 2 weeks postoperatively, the patient had attained full extension and 90 degrees of flexion. Ten months after the index procedure, the patient had range of motion 0 degrees to 120 degrees and was diagnosed with a healing tibial stress fracture. At 17 months postoperatively, the patient had attained full extension, 120 degrees of flexion, and 85% quadriceps strength. The preoperative goals of attaining full range of motion, improving quadriceps strength, obtaining anatomic patellar alignment, and restoring function were obtained despite the complication of a tibial stress fracture. Although this reconstructive procedure is technically demanding, with potential complications, the functional results obtained can be excellent. Arthroscopy 1998 Apr;14(3):340-4