Graft Preparation Technique to Optimize Hamstring Graft Diameter for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Arthrosc Tech. 2017 Nov 13;6(6):e2169-e2175. doi: 10.1016/j.eats.2017.08.011. eCollection 2017 Dec.

Abstract

Hamstring autografts are frequently used for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The inherent variability in graft diameter has been stated as a disadvantage in its use because the presence of smaller graft diameters has been correlated with increased risk of re-rupture. Several techniques have been described to address this concern. Modifications of the basic Graftlink technique allows for increased control over final graft diameter using a standard harvest of the semitendinosus tendon with or without the gracilis tendon, and results in a graft of adequate length and diameter in all patients with rigid cortical fixation on the femur and tibia.