CRUCIATE LIGAMENT PROSTHESES - TECHNIQUES , RESULTS AND PROSPECTS

Artificial ligaments have been used as augmentation devices, scaffolds , ingrowth ligaments and even prostheses. The augmentation devices rel y entirely on the autologous tissue for their function, whereas each o f the other types functions more or less as a prosthesis. These device s can function only for a limited time and they are very sensitive to the implantation technique. Problems involve debris formation, synovit is and finally ligament rupture. There is also a loss of stability in the treated knee over the first 2-3 postoperative years. The clinical results obtained in various studies with the prosthetic devices are no t satisfactory. The problem of reconstruction of a knee with ligamento us instability is far greater than that involved in replacing the liga ment only.