Results of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and the use of absorbable interference screws (minimum 2.5-year follow-up)

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of biodegradable interf erence screw use in ACL reconstruction beyond the usual clinical historical and physical findings. The use of this material for interference screws ha s potential benefits if the problems of inflammation are minimal and the fi xation properties are sufficient. There is no need for a second operation f or removal and no complicating factor if revision surgery is necessary. A p rospective study was initiated in May, 1993 to evaluate the use of biodegra dable interference screws (Instrument Makar). Our patients were evaluated w ith the aid of the common OAK-score. The overall evaluation showed 89.5% ex cellent and good results, 7% fair results and 3.5% poor results. The averag e score was 90.7 points (63-100 points). The measurement with the arthromet er (KT 1000) showed a difference of up to 3 mm as compared to the knee join t not operated on in 24 (93%) of the patients. Four patients showed a 3 to 6 mm difference. A tibia translation of more than 4 mm was not measured in any case. The biodegradable interference screw is a safe and effective inte rference screw for fixation of the bone blocks for ACL reconstruction.