Synthetic materials for the replacement of knee ligaments.

The augmentation of autogenous tissue should be considered in failed autogenous grafts or when inadequate tissue is present which does not allow adequate tissue length, provide enough tensile strength, or insufficient fixation. Multiply failed anterior cruciate ligament surgical procedures should be considered candidates for a true prosthetic replacement. In certain patients with degenerative changes and functional instability, the use of a true prosthesis might also be considered in combination with other types of degenerative joint surgery. With all of our attempts at ligamentous reconstruction about the knee, we are seeking the ideal solution--the ultimate surgical technique for the anterior cruciate loss--minimal morbidity, rapid rehabilitation, return to full function, and reliable results. The intra-articular notch is not the ideal area to create a new ligament whether it be by autogenous or artificial means.