Effects of Braiding on Tensile Properties of Four-Strand Human Hamstring Tendon Grafts

Authors:

Peter J Millett, Bruce S Miller, Matthew Close, William I Sterett, William Walsh, Richard J Hawkins

Abstract:

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with the use of autogenous hamstring tendon grafts is a well-recognized procedure. Initially, the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons were harvested and used as two-strand autografts for reconstruction of the deficient ACL, but concerns about strength led to the use of four-strand constructs. Creating a four-strand graft, by folding the tendons in half, decreases the length but increases the tensile strength and stiffness of the graft.

For the complete study: Effects of Braiding on Tensile Properties of Four-Strand Human Hamstring Tendon Grafts