Effects of a Platelet Gel on Early Graft Revascularization after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial

Background: Slow graft healing in bone tunnels and a slow graft ligamentization process after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction are some of the reasons for prolonged rehabilitation. Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of platelet gel (PG) accelerates early graft revascularization after ACL reconstruction. Methods: PG was produced from autologous platelet-rich plasma and applied locally. We quantitatively evaluated the revascularization process in the osteoligamentous interface zone in the bone tunnels and in the intra-articular part of the graft by means of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results: After 4-6 weeks, the PG-treated group demonstrated a significantly higher level of vascularization in the osteoligamentous interface (0.33 +/- 0.09) than the control group (0.16 +/- 0.09, p < 0.001). In the intra-articular part of the graft, we found no evidence of revascularization in either group. Conclusion: Locally applied PG enhanced early revascularization of the graft in the osteoligamentous interface zone after ACL reconstruction. Copyright (C) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel