OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the mechanical strength and regeneration of the patellar ligament after harvesting the middle-third for reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament, using the traditional technique of a single longitudinal skin incision or two small transverse incisions, in sheep. METHODS: Ten sheep were used in this study. In the right knee we removed the graft by the traditional method, and in the left knee, using the two transverse incision method. The animals were observed for six months. The specimens (patellar, tibia and patella) were adapted to the mechanical test machine. RESULTS: No difference was found between the two proposed techniques in relation to regeneration and mechanical strength of the patellar ligament. Shortening of the patellar ligament was also observed in the two groups, and suture of the superficial fascia of the patellar ligament did not influence the regeneration of the patellar ligament, according to the histology. CONCLUSION: The technique using two mini-incisions in the skin does not present the same levels of regeneration or mechanical strength of the remaining patellar ligament as the traditional technique of a single, longitudinal incision.
Anterior cruciate ligament; Patellar ligament; Sheep
