Influence of immobilization on autograft healing in the knee joint. A preliminary study in a sheep knee PCL model.

The influence of immobilization on patellar tendon autograft healing was investigated in 12 sheep with replaced posterior cruciate ligaments of the knee (PCLs). In one group achillotomy immobilized the operated knee joint. In another group initial reduced weight-bearing was obtained by hanging the sheep in a special trapeze. In the third group no protection at all was given to the operated knee. The sheep in this group went within 8 weeks from partial use of the operated leg to unrestricted weightbearing and mobility. Biomechanical testing 16 weeks after the operation demonstrated a considerable decrease in the maximum force, ligament stiffness, and strain values in the achillotomy group, as well as an increase in posterior laxity. The best data were observed in the no-protection group. This study demonstrates the negative effect of immobilization on autograft healing in a sheep PCL model. Even early in the healing process tissue may be extremely sensitive to stress and strain.