Free Tendon Graft Research Articles

Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Joint

The ulnar and radial collateral ligaments are primary stabilizers of the thumb metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint. Injury to these ligaments can lead to instability and disability. Stress testing is essential to establish the diagnosis. Complete tear is diagnosed on physical examination when the proximal phalanx of the thumb can be angulated ulnarly or radially on the metacarpal head by 30° to 35° with the MP joint in either zero degrees of extension or 30° of flexion. Lack of a firm end point or angulation measuring >15° on stress testing compared with the contralateral thumb MP joint are also indicative of complete tear. Partial ligament injuries may be managed nonsurgically, but complete tears are usually managed surgically. Various techniques are used to reattach the ligament to bone, including suture anchors and, less commonly, repair of midsubstance tears. Options for managing chronic injuries include ligament repair, ligament reconstruction with a free tendon graft, and arthrodesis of the MP joint.

The “Ligamentization” Process in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: Surgical anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using tendon grafts has become the standard to treat the functionally unstable anterior cruciate ligament–deficient knee. Although tendons clearly differ biologically from ligaments, multiple animal studies have shown that the implanted tendons indeed seem to remodel into a ligamentous “anterior cruciate ligament–like” structure. Purpose: The goal of this study was to systematically review the current literature on the “ligamentization” process in human anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Study Design: Systematic review. Methods: A computerized search using relevant search terms was performed in the PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases, as well as a manual search of reference lists. Searches were limited to studies examining the healing of the intra-articular portion of the tendon graft based on biopsies of this graft obtained from a living human. Results: Four studies were determined to be appropriate for systematic review, none of them reaching a level of evidence higher than 3. All reports considered autografts. Biopsy specimens were evaluated by light or electron microscopy and analyzed for vascularization, cellular aspects, and appearance of extracellular matrix. All authors universally agreed that the tendon grafts survive in the intra-articular environment. Based on changes observed in the healing grafts with regard to vascularization, cellular aspects, and properties of the extracellular matrix, different chronologic stages in the ligamentization process were discerned. Conclusion: The key finding of this systematic review is that a free tendon graft replacing a ruptured human anterior cruciate ligament undergoes a series of biologic processes termed “ligamentization.” The graft seems to remain viable at any time during this course. Histologically, the mature grafts may resemble the normal human anterior cruciate ligament, but ultrastructural differences regarding collagen fibril distribution do persist. Different stages of the ligamentization process are described, but no agreement exists on their time frame. Problematic direct transmission of animal data to the human situation, the limited number of reports considering the ligamentization process in humans, and the potential biopsy sampling error attributable to superficial graft biopsies necessitate further human studies on anterior cruciate ligament graft ligamentization.

A BIOMECHANICAL STUDY OF A SUTURE BETWEEN THE DELTOID MUSCLE AND A FREE TENDON GRAFT FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF THE ELBOW EXTENSION

It is possible to reconstruct the elbow motion in tetraplegic patients using the posterior portion of the deltoid muscle. In this surgery however, it is a problem to achieve a firm suture between the deltoid muscle and the tendon graft which extends the muscle and is sewn in order to compensate for the plegic musculus triceps brachii function. This study assesses two methods of attachment between muscle and free tendon graft from the biomechanical point of view. The assessment was made on 7 fresh-frozen cadaveric samples where the rear portion of the deltoid muscle was sewn with the strip of fascia lata (A1-A7) and 7 samples (B1-B7) where the free tendon graft was attached with a strengthened part of deltoid fascia. The character of the attachment defect was evaluated as strength and elongation parameters using the device Zwick Z020-TND. The ANOVA showed a statistically significant greater suture solidity connecting the muscle and tendon for group B (B1-B7) than group A. The deformation of the actual suture location was smaller in group B than the deformation of attachment surroundings. From the biomechanical solidity point of view, it is more efficient to use the strengthened fascia of the deltoid muscle on its inner side for the suture with the tendon graft for reconstruction of the elbow extension in tetraplegic patients.

Outcome of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction of the Elbow in 1281 Athletes

Background The anterior bundle of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is the primary anatomical structure providing elbow stability in overhead sports, particularly baseball. Injury to the UCL in overhead athletes often leads to symptomatic valgus instability that requires surgical treatment. Hypothesis Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction with a free tendon graft, known as Tommy John surgery, will allow return to the same competitive level of sports participation in the majority of athletes. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods Ulnar collateral reconstruction (1266) or repair (15) was performed in 1281 patients over a 19-year period (1988—2006) using a modification of the Jobe technique. Data were collected prospectively and patients were surveyed retrospectively with a telephone questionnaire to determine outcomes and return to performance at a minimum of 2 years after surgery. Results Nine hundred forty-two patients were available for a minimum 2-year follow-up (average, 38.4 months; range, 24-130 months). Seven hundred forty-three patients (79%) were contacted for follow-up evaluation and/or completed a questionnaire at an average of 37 months postoperatively. Six hundred seventeen patients (83%) returned to the previous level of competition or higher, including 610 (83%) after reconstruction. The average time from surgery to the initiation of throwing was 4.4 months (range, 2.8-12 months) and the average time to full competition was 11.6 months (range, 3-72 months) after reconstruction. Complications occurred in 148 patients (20%), including 16% considered minor and 4% considered major. Conclusion Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction with subcutaneous ulnar nerve transposition was found to be effective in correcting valgus elbow instability in the overhead athlete and allowed most athletes (83%) to return to previous or higher level of competition in less than 1 year.

Stabilization for chronic sternoclavicular joint instability

We present a surgical reconstruction technique for chronic unstable sternoclavicular (SC) joint utilizing the tendon of sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle and additional augmentation utilizing the palmaris longus free tendon graft to secure the medial end of the clavicle to the first rib. This double stabilization procedure may strengthen the SC joint fixation for the chronic SC joint instability.

Clavicular Fractures Following Coracoclavicular Ligament Reconstruction with Tendon Graft

The ideal method of surgical treatment of severe acromioclavicular joint separations remains controversial, with more than sixty techniques described in the literature. Recently, there has been increased interest in the use of free tendon grafts to reconstruct the coracoclavicular ligaments. To our knowledge, the first published case report of reconstruction with a semitendinosus tendon autograft appeared in 20011. Numerous techniques have subsequently been developed in an effort to improve clinical results. An anatomic method of reconstruction, which focuses specifically on recreating both the conoid and the trapezoid coracoclavicular ligament, has been described2. This construct is particularly appealing because the ligaments act synergistically to limit displacement of the acromioclavicular joint. Therefore, an anatomic reconstruction of both ligaments may improve the stability of the acromioclavicular joint and enhance clinical outcomes. There have been few reports, however, focusing on complications of these newer procedures. We report on a small series of patients in whom tendon graft reconstructions placed through two distinct clavicular bone tunnels resulted in fracture of the clavicle. We have identified factors of which surgeons should be aware to avoid these complications. The surgical technique involved a modification of the procedure originally described by Mazzocca et al.2. The patient was placed in the beach-chair position after receiving an interscalene block and general anesthesia. An incision was created in the Langer lines approximately 4 cm medial to the acromioclavicular joint and extending from the clavicle toward the coracoid. The deltotrapezial fascia was incised and elevated subperiosteally. A T-extension of the fascia incision was created to expose the coracoid process. Distal clavicular resection was not performed. The technique modification consisted of the use of a bioabsorbable suture anchor placed in the coracoid base for supplemental fixation. Two bone tunnels, typically 6 mm in diameter to accommodate the …

MRI follow-up after free tendon graft reconstruction of the thumb ulnar collateral ligament

Our aim was to analyse whether MRI is useful in the follow-up of reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb, to describe normal postoperative findings, and to evaluate different MR sequences. Our study material consists of 10 patients who, because of a chronic rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb, had been operatively treated using a free tendon graft. The patients were, in addition to the clinical examination and radiographs, also imaged using MRI both pre- and postoperatively. The postoperative MRI controls, undertaken at 2, 12 and 24months were analysed without knowledge of the clinical or radiographic findings. The reconstructed UCL was well visualised on MRI. One graft rupture was diagnosed on MRI and was later operatively confirmed. No increase in osteoarthritis of the metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint of the thumb was seen during the follow-up. The single most informative MR sequence was T2TSE in the coronal plane. Magnetic resonance imaging may provide a clinically valuable means of assessing graft integrity in patients with suspected postoperative graft failure after UCL reconstruction, although we do not consider MRI necessary in the routine follow-up of patients with an uneventful recovery.

A Biomechanical Analysis of the Native Coracoclavicular Ligaments and Their Influence on a New Reconstruction Using a Coracoid Tunnel and Free Tendon Graft

To understand and characterize the kinematic properties of the 2 coracoclavicular ligaments and to evaluate the biomechanical performance of a new 3-tunnel reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligaments by use of a free tendon graft. Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested. The kinematics and in situ forces of the coracoclavicular ligaments were tested with a robotic testing system. Kinematics of the shoulder in the intact state, in the sectioned state, and finally, after a coracoclavicular reconstruction and a coracoclavicular sling reconstruction were evaluated. The conoid had higher in situ forces during anterior and superior loading of the clavicle when compared with the trapezoid ligament, whereas the trapezoid ligament had higher in situ forces during posterior loading. Sectioning the trapezoid ligament significantly increased translation of the clavicle in the posterior direction, whereas sectioning the conoid ligament significantly increased superior translation. When we compared the 2 reconstruction techniques, the coracoid tunnel reconstruction was superior in controlling anterior translation whereas the coracoclavicular sling reconstruction was inferior because of anterior displacement of the graft. There was no significant difference in posterior or superior translation between either reconstruction technique. The trapezoid and conoid ligaments have unique functions in normal shoulder kinematics because of their anatomic attachments. By more faithfully restoring these insertion sites on the clavicle and controlling motion of the graft on the coracoid, the 3-tunnel reconstruction technique more closely restores native shoulder kinematics than the coracoclavicular sling technique. Understanding the unique roles of the conoid and trapezoid bundles of the coracoclavicular ligament may improve surgical techniques in the management of acromioclavicular joint injuries. The reconstructive technique presented more faithfully restores normal kinematics and forces across the acromioclavicular joint than the coracoclavicular sling technique.

Ultrathin Oblique Volar-to-Dorsal Reverse Turnover Radial Artery Perforator-Based Adipofascial Flap

Adipofascial flaps used in reconstruction of various tissue defects have been described by many authors and have several advantages. A clinical report of an extensive dorsal hand traumatic soft tissue injury where a new ultrathin oblique volar-to-dorsal adipofascial reverse turnover flap based on radial artery distal perforators is presented. Its width-to-length ratio was 1:4 (the longest ever reported), designed to cover primary free tendon grafts and exposed metacarpal bones. The technique has provided very good hand function and cosmetic outcome, minimum donor site morbidity, shortened rehabilitation, and no complications. Adipofascial flaps constitute a functional and an aesthetic refinement in the reconstructive surgical techniques managing complex tissue defects of the dorsum of the hand, a new surgical strategy reported here.

ACL graft migration under cyclic loading

Elongation and migration of ACL grafts will lead to a deterioration of the initial stability of ACL reconstructions. The graft migration has been sparsely investigated independently from the elongation of the graft-fixation complex. The hypothesis of this investigation was that cyclic tensile loads cause a measurable migration of the grafts. Three graft/fixation combinations were investigated in human femora (n = 7): human bone-patellar tendon grafts fixed with a biointerference screw (BPTG-IS) and free tendon grafts (porcine) fixed with either a Bio-TransFix pin (FTG-TF) or an Endobutton CL (FTG-EB). The grafts were fitted with tantalum markers. Then, the specimens were repetitively loaded (50-250 N, 800 cycles). The marker position was fluoroscopically determined at defined intervals and the migration calculated from the change in position relative to a fiducial marker within the bone. A migration of the grafts occurred in all three groups. The migration in the FTG-EB group was significantly larger than in the two other groups (P < 0.01). After 800 cycles, average migration was 0.3 (+/-0.2) mm in the BPTG-IS group, 0.7 (+/-0.4) mm FTG-TF group, 2.0 (+/-1.3) mm in the FTG-EB group. This migration might contribute to a loss of initial stability. Because the graft migration was dependent on the technique, the presented data might provide additional arguments for making the decision on the most appropriate graft/fixation combination.

Free hamstrings tendon transfer and interference screw fixation for less invasive reconstruction of chronic avulsions of the Achilles tendon

Reconstruction of chronic avulsions of the Achilles tendon can be technically difficult, as the calcaneus can be totally denuded of tendon, or only a small tuft of frayed tissue may have remain attached to the calcaneus, and be inadequate to allow a direct repair. In these patients, if it is not possible to directly reattach the Achilles tendon, a tendon graft can be necessary. We developed a less invasive technique using a free semitendinosus tendon graft with interference screw fixation in the calcaneus through a Cincinnati incision. Using this approach, a wide exposure of the insertion of the Achilles tendon is possible, preserving the integrity of the skin overlying the site most prone to wound breakdown.

Tension Degradation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Grafts With Dynamic Flexion-Extension Loading: A Biomechanical Model in Porcine Knees

This study investigates the influence of various femoral anterior cruciate ligament graft fixation methods on the amount of tension degradation and the initial fixation strength after cyclic flexion-extension loading in a porcine knee model. One hundred twenty porcine digital extensor tendons, used as 4-stranded free tendon grafts, were fixated within porcine femoral bone tunnels by use of extracortical button, cross-pin, or interference screw fixation. One hundred twenty porcine patellar tendon-bone grafts were fixated by use of cross-pin, interference screw, or press-fit fixation. Each femur-graft complex was submitted to cyclic flexion-extension loading for 1,000 cycles throughout different loading ranges, and the total loss of tension was determined. After cyclic testing, the grafts were loaded to failure, and the data were compared with a pullout series without cyclic loading. Tension degradation after 1,000 cycles of flexion-extension loading averaged 62.6% +/- 10.0% in free tendon grafts and 48.9% +/- 13.35% in patellar tendon-bone grafts. There was no influence of the loading range on the total amount of tension degradation. The total amount of tension degradation was the highest with interference screw fixation of free tendon and patellar tendon-bone grafts. Despite excessive loss of tension, the initial fixation strength of the femur-graft complex was not reduced. The method of femoral graft fixation significantly influenced tension degradation during dynamic flexion-extension loading. Femoral graft fixation methods that secure the graft close to the tunnel entrance and that displace the graft substance from the center of the bone tunnel show the largest amount of tension degradation during cyclic flexion-extension loading. The graft substance, not the fixation site, was the weakest link of the graft complex within this investigation. We believe that the graft fixation method should be considered when aiming to improve the precision of femoral graft placement in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Surgical Repair of Acute and Chronic Tibialis Anterior Tendon Ruptures

Rupture of the tibialis anterior tendon is an uncommon disorder that can cause a substantial functional deficit as a result of loss of ankle dorsiflexion strength. We are not aware of any reports on a large clinical series of patients undergoing surgical repair of this injury. Nineteen tibialis anterior tendon ruptures were surgically repaired in eighteen patients ranging in age from twenty-one to seventy-eight years. Early repair was performed for one traumatic and seven atraumatic ruptures three days to six weeks after the injury. Delayed reconstruction was performed for two traumatic and nine atraumatic ruptures that had been present for seven weeks to five years. Direct tendon repair was possible for four of the early repairs and three of the delayed reconstructions. An interpositional autogenous tendon graft was used for four early repairs and eight delayed reconstructions. Patients were reassessed clinically and with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score at an average of 53.3 months after surgery. The average hindfoot score improved significantly from 55.5 points preoperatively to 93.6 points postoperatively. The surgical results did not appear to vary according to patient age, sex, or medical comorbidity. Complications requiring a second surgical procedure occurred in three patients. Recovery of functional dorsiflexion and improvement in gait was noted in eighteen of the nineteen cases. Ankle dorsiflexion strength was graded clinically as 5/5 in fifteen of the nineteen cases. Three patients regained 4/5 ankle dorsiflexion strength, and one patient had 3/5 strength with a poor clinical result. Surgical restoration of the function of the tibialis anterior muscle can be beneficial regardless of age, sex, medical comorbidity, or delay in diagnosis. Early surgical treatment may be less complicated than delayed treatment, and an intercalated free tendon graft and/or gastrocnemius recession may be necessary to achieve an appropriately tensioned and balanced repair.

Treatment of Subsesamoid Arthritis of the Metacarpophalangeal Joint of the Thumb: Volar Plate Reinforcing Technique after Sesamoid Excision

Purpose: To report the clinical outcomes of a volar plate reinforcing technique with free tendon grafts after sesamoid excision for the surgical treatment of subsesamoid arthritis of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint of the thumb. Materials and Methods: Eleven consecutive patients that underwent sesamoid excision and volar plate reinforcement using a palmaris longus free tendon graft were enrolled. There were 7 males and 4 females, with an average age of 46 (range, 30-56 years). Post-traumatic arthritis after a hyperextension injury of the thumb was present in 9 patients. Two patients had idiopathic arthritis. All patients were evaluated by objective and subjective criteria, the mean follow-up duration was 19 months (range, 12-35 months). Results: The results were satisfactory overall (3 excellent, 7 good, 1 poor). The mean grip strength and pinch strength significantly improved from 63.0% and 51.3%, respectively, preoperatively, to 84.9% and 88.9%, postoperatively. The mean range of motion for the MCP joint was −5.9/50.9 degrees. The mean DASH and MHQ scores showed significant improvement compared to the preoperative scores. Conclusion: The early clinical results suggest that the described technique is a safe and effective option for subsesamoid arthritis of the MCP joint of the thumb.

Ligament Reconstruction and Tendon Interposition for Advanced Posttraumatic Arthritis of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: 3 Case Reports

Although prosthetic replacement of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint can restore function, it is associated with high rates of complications and is considered unsuitable for active young patients. Resection arthroplasty of the PIP joint offers an alternative, but it requires adequate soft tissue integrity and cannot correct lateral instability. The authors present an alternative resection arthroplasty technique for the PIP joint, which includes collateral ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition using a free tendon graft. This procedure can be performed in advanced posttraumatic arthritis of the PIP joint and provides acceptable motion and adequate lateral stability.

Pulley Reconstruction With Different Materials: Experimental Study

The digital fibroosseous pulley system is essential for optimum function of the flexor tendons and the continuation of normal hand functions. Different materials have been used for pulley reconstruction in the literature but the ideal material is still controversial. In this study, after the excision of the A2 pulley, pulley reconstructions were performed by using acellular dermal matrix, solvent dehydrated bovine pericardium, fascia lata, and free tendon graft in the rabbit model. The animals were killed at the 8th and 12th weeks and subjected to biomechanical testing. Tendon excursion and work of flexion values were calculated for each digit of the rabbits. As a result, all the reconstructed pulleys were functioning well without a statistically significant difference between the experimental groups. Pulleys reconstructed with acellular dermal matrix and solvent-dehydrated bovine pericardium appear to have the potential to function as effective pulley substitutes.

A Simple Grafting Method to Repair Irreparable Distal Biceps Tendon

Irreparable distal biceps tendon tears typically are treated using a free tendon graft. We asked whether our new method to fix the graft--using two suture anchors--yields similar results to our previous bone canal method. We compared the two methods for strength, endurance, and clinical findings. There were two groups, the suture anchor group (Group A, seven patients) and the bone canal group operated on before suture anchors (Group B, seven patients). The patients were males with a mean age at surgery of 44.9 years. The operative delay from primary trauma to index surgery averaged 5.9 months. The minimum followup was 2 years (mean, 11.1 years; range, 2-23 years). The mean arc of elbow motion was 0 degrees to 132 degrees, pronation 83 degrees, and supination 80 degrees. Compared with the contralateral side, the maximal peak torque was 84% in supination and 91% in pronation, and the maximal static elbow flexion strength was 94%. The Mayo elbow score averaged 99 in Group A and 100 in Group B. There were no major differences between the two groups. Our novel modification to fix a tendon graft yields equal clinical outcomes compared with the bone canal method for treatment of irreparable distal biceps tendon injuries. Level IV, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Vergleich der Ergebnisse nach Rekonstruktion der Sehne des Musculus extensor pollicis longus durch freies Sehneninterponat gegenüber dem motorischen Ersatz durch eine Extensor indicis-Transposition

Is there a difference in the results of free tendon grafting or transfer of the extensor indicis tendon for the reconstruction of the extensor pollicis longus tendon? Two groups of patients, who underwent surgery between 1992 and 1998, were compared. From 58 patients with tendon grafts 48 were re-examined. For reconstruction, a graft harvested from the palmaris longus tendon was applied that was woven into the proximal and distal stump of the extensor pollicis tendon according to the technique of Pulvertaft. From 56 patients with transfer of the extensor indicis tendon, 40 were re-examined. The extensor indicis transfer was performed by the standard technique. Extension and flexion of the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints of the thumb, retroposition, abduction and opposition were examined. In addition, the span of the hand, grip strength and pinch strength were measured. A summarising assessment was performed according to the Geldmacher score, the subjective impairment was assessed by the DASH score. Both groups were comparable according to demographic data and aetiology of the rupture. The range of motion was nearly identical after both surgical techniques. Range of motion of the joints of the thumb, abduction and opposition reached normal values but both methods restored only 60 % of the normal retroposition. According to the Geldmacher score, both methods showed good and excellent results. The DASH score resulted in low values with 10 and, respectively, 14 points. After extensor indicis transfer all patients demonstrated isolated extension of the index. Both methods establish equally good results. Free tendon grafting is technically more demanding but preserves a more powerful isolated extension of the index finger and should, therefore, be preferred in patients with special demands on this function (e.g., musicians). The transfer of the extensor indicis tendon is technically less demanding, requires retraining and may impair the isolated function of the index finger.

Creation of a “Dorsal Transverse Intermetacarpal Ligament” to Prevent Scissoring Deformity in Central Ray Amputation

An adjunctive technique of ray approximation after central ray amputation is presented. This procedure creates a "dorsal transverse intermetacarpal ligament" by using a free tendon graft from the amputee to help prevent scissoring of the fingers, without the need for bony transposition or dorsal dermodesis.

New operative technique for treatment of arthroscopically–confirmed injury to the scapholunate ligament by volar capsuloplasty augmented with a free tendon graft

We report how scapholunate (SL) lesions found during arthroscopy were treated using a new palmar operation based on the use of a tendon loop formed using the palmaris longus tendon, with promising preliminary results. Scapholunate instability induced by hyperextension injury was diagnosed and graded arthroscopically. Volar capsuloplasty was then done by free tendon graft in the same session in 31 patients with grades II-IV scapholunate instability. Half of the patients operated on had a normal range of movement, and all except one had flexion-extension of at least 75% of the normal. Half of the patients had no pain or limitations of the use of the wrist, and although half the patients had some pain on exertion, not one had severe pain. These results are comparable to, or even better than, those reported using other methods of repair. The combined procedure saves money, diminishes the total recuperation time and, as autologous tissues are used for the repair, secondary operations for removal of the implant are unnecessary. This method seems to be a useful adjunct to the types of operative treatment available, although it is apparently not suitable in static grade IV SL instability.