Semitendinosus anatomic reconstruction for cruciate ligament insufficiency.

Semitendinosus anatomic reconstruction (STAR) rebuilds the major anatomic bands of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and provides isometric ligamentous relationships. STAR secures a graft firmly enough to allow intraoperative testing and early motion. It provides a graft comparable in strength with a normal ACL and salvages the insufficient cruciate ligament even after other procedures have failed. Although technically difficult, this procedure can be accomplished in approximately one hour after it has been mastered. During more than four years of experience, STAR has been a predictable and reliable method for anterior cruciate acute augmentation, as well as reconstruction for chronic cruciate ligament insufficiency.