What is arthrex GraftLink?
The GraftLink® technique provides the ultimate in anatomic, minimally invasive, and reproducible ACL reconstruction. Used in combination with anatomic guides, the FlipCutter III drill allows independent femoral and tibial “retrodrilling” to create sockets while maintaining the cortices to potentially maximize fixation.
How do you prepare a hamstring graft?
Eight-strand graft preparation with 2 tendons. (1) Both ends of both tendons are sutured together. (2) A nonabsorbable suture is passed in the middle and the tendons are folded. (3) The needle is passed through the proximal part of both tendons, grabbing and tensioning the distal part with the nonabsorbable suture.
What is graft link?
A graft-link construct is created, similar to the links in a chain, where a femoral ACL TightRope and tibial ACL TightRope Reverse Tension are linked within each end of the loop.
Does hamstring graft grow back?
Once the hamstring tendons are taken for the graft, they do not grow back and therefore, leave the hamstring weaker than it was before surgery.
Where is a hamstring graft taken from?
The hamstring muscles run down the back of the thigh. Their tendons cross the knee joint and connect on each side of the tibia. The graft used in ACL reconstruction is taken from the hamstring tendon (semitendinosus) along the inside part of the thigh and knee.
How strong is hamstring graft?
Since it has four tendon strands, the graft is very strong, up to two or three times the native ACL. Hamstring grafts have been associated with better extension, lower incidence of post-surgical arthritis and better extension strength.
Which graft is best for ACL reconstruction?
The patellar tendon graft (PTG) has always been the gold standard for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Yet, most orthopedic surgeons prefer hamstring grafts for younger athletes and cadaver grafts for older patients.
What are Autografts made of?
The most commonly used materials are coralline hydroxyapatite, β-tricalcium phosphate, and calcium sulfate. The use of these materials as an extender allows for less autograft material to be harvested, thus decreasing the risk of donor site morbidity and pain.
Do they intubate you for ACL surgery?
Once sedated and asleep under general anesthesia, you will be intubated with an endotracheal tube that will be connected to a ventilator to assist you with breathing during the surgery. You will not feel anything.
How long does a hamstring graft take to heal?
While the 6 month time frame is typically the earliest patients are allowed to return to contact sports, graft healing and recovery can take up to 12 months or more.
Is a hamstring graft painful?
Both grafting approaches have similar symptoms after surgery, joint strength and stability, and ability to use the knee. However, with the hamstring tendon graft, there are generally no problems kneeling and no pain in the front of the knee.
How strong is hamstring graft ACL?
Which graft is better patellar tendon or hamstring?
What is Arthrex hamstring harvesting?
Arthrex offers the most advanced techniques and instruments for hamstring harvesting and preparation. Harvesting can be accomplished and reproducibly with the traditional anterior approach or remove a posterior approach using the minimally invasive hamstring harvest technique and specialized tendon strippers.
What is ACL hamstring graft harvesting and preparation?
ACL Hamstring Graft Harvest and Preparation. Arthrex offers the most advanced techniques and instruments for hamstring harvesting and preparation. Harvesting can be accomplished and reproducibly with the traditional anterior approach or remove a posterior approach using the minimally invasive hamstring harvest technique and specialized tendon…
What is the Arthrex graft prep station?
The Arthrex Graft Prep Station includes a variety of interchangeable clamps and posts to facilitate graft tensioning and suturing. Graft preparation has been revolutionized with the line of FiberLoop ® suture and the SpeedWhip™ technique.