There are new studies, confirming recent reports, that are finding higher rates of failure with donor ACL grafts. When an ACL tear occurs, there are treatment options. Surgery is generally preferred in younger patients, and patients who perform particular sports that are hard to do without a functioning ACL.
When surgery is performed, a new ACL must be created. Some people use tissue from their own body to make the new ACL. Another option is to use donated tissue from a cadaver, called an allograft.
Recent studies are showing higher risks of failure with the allograft tissue. The authors of this most recent study recommend use of autograft tissue (not donor) in almost all ACL reconstructions, particularly in patients under the age of 25.
Related: ACL Tears | ACL Surgery | ACL Graft Options
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Sources: Stanton T "High Failure Rates Seen for Allograft in Younger ACL Patients" AAOSNow July 2012, Page 11.
