Patella Graft ACL Reconstruction Experience

[kumaraja]

Hi,

I tore my left knee ACL along with some meniscus tear. Previously I had a meniscus surgery on the same knee 10 years back, where they took out 40 % of my interior meniscus. I am 55 years old, pretty active and in shape. I consulted 2 orthopedic surgeons and both of them are steering me towards patella graft option. I have heard folks who went through patella graft often experience knee pain esp. while kneeling. What has been your experience esp. folks who underwent ACL reconstruction using patella grafts. Thank you for your response.

 

[Dan Murphy]

I personally have not undergone ACL reconstruction using patella grafts, kuma, but do wish you well with the tear in your left knee ACL along with some meniscus tear. And welcome to the dis.

 

[leebee]

I'm not sure if this is the same thing, but in 1992 DH had the middle third of his patella TENDON removed and installed in the knee joint to "replace" his ACL. It went well for him. He walked with more stability and less pain for 20+ years, including being a "recreational" runner (ran several miles daily and trained/participated in a couple of half-marathons). I just asked him and he said after the first year-ish, he had no pain with kneeling or anything else.

 

[luv2cheer92]

I'm assuming OP and the previous poster mean patellar tendon graft, not the actual patella (that would be odd). Patellar tendon grafts tend to be the most successful in my experience, as far as recovery. There are times when an alternate graft is indicated, and the surgeon would have a better idea in regards to that.

 

[1420Elexismc]

I had an ACL/meniscus tear in 2008. They used part of my hamstring to repair my ACL. I haven't had any issues since. I was back to full contact soccer 5 months after surgery...I was 29 at the time.

 

[leebee]

I'm assuming OP and the previous poster mean patellar tendon graft, not the actual patella (that would be odd). Patellar tendon grafts tend to be the most successful in my experience, as far as recovery. There are times when an alternate graft is indicated, and the surgeon would have a better idea in regards to that.

You are so right- that's what I get for posting at 6am, before I'd had my coffee! Yes, DH had a patellar tendon graft, although he was given the option of using his own tendon or cadaver tendon. He decided to use his own tendon. (and I decided to edit my prior post!)