Effects of a platelet gel on early graft revascularization after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial

Eur Surg Res. 2010;45(2):77-85. doi: 10.1159/000318597. Epub 2010 Sep 1.

Abstract

Background: Slow graft healing in bone tunnels and a slow graft ligamentization process after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction are some of the reasons for prolonged rehabilitation.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of platelet gel (PG) accelerates early graft revascularization after ACL reconstruction.

Methods: PG was produced from autologous platelet-rich plasma and applied locally. We quantitatively evaluated the revascularization process in the osteoligamentous interface zone in the bone tunnels and in the intra-articular part of the graft by means of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results: After 4-6 weeks, the PG-treated group demonstrated a significantly higher level of vascularization in the osteoligamentous interface (0.33 ± 0.09) than the control group (0.16 ± 0.09, p < 0.001). In the intra-articular part of the graft, we found no evidence of revascularization in either group.

Conclusion: Locally applied PG enhanced early revascularization of the graft in the osteoligamentous interface zone after ACL reconstruction.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / blood supply
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery*
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries*
  • Blood Platelets*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Gels / administration & dosage
  • Gels / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries / surgery*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic
  • Patellar Ligament / transplantation
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rupture / surgery
  • Transplantation, Autologous
  • Wound Healing
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Gels