This study intended to examine the effects of radiofrequency shrinkage (RF) on patellar ligament (PL) and posterior cruciate ligaments (PCL) of fresh human cadavers, measuring stiffness and maximum deformation. Eleven PCLs and 14 PLs were studied with traction tests being performed with the aid of a Kratos® K5002 machine. The structures were reduced by 15-20%, after the shrinkage. However, this reduction was partially lost after the traction test. Conclusion: RF was successful in reducing the length of the structures studied, in spite of the statistically significant stiffness loss. Then, RF was not fully successful in maintaining the reduction of ligament length under the traction forces of the test.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament; Patellar Tendon; Biomechanics; Catheter Ablation
