Temporary intraarticular knee stabilization with synthetic material (Polyester-Silicon) in the sheep.

We draw the following conclusions from these animal experiments: a) It is possible to stabilize the knee joint of a sheep after resection of the anterior cruciate ligament by a suitable synthetic band. A foreign body reaction did not occur. b) After replacement of the anterior cruciate by an auto-, homo- or heterologous material, it was not necessary to immobilize the joint. c) In comparison to a control group, it appears that the transformation of the replacement material occurs faster due to the functional stimulation under guided mobility. d) The smooth surface of the synthetic material prevents its incorporation into connective tissue. Therefore, it is possible to remove this synthetic material after sufficient strength of the implanted material has been obtained. e) By fixing the synthetic band on the femoral shaft and the tibial head it can be removed without problems by small skin incisions without opening the joint. f) Kinking, wear and fatigue of the synthetic material can be avoided by rerouting the band around the lateral femoral condyle and the tibial edge. g) These results of animal experiments cannot be transferred to the human knee without great caution. Yet, it seems at least technically possible to achieve primary knee stability by a synthetic band in connection with a suture or replacement of the anterior cruciate.