Keegan

by Julie Heller
(Schenectady, New York)

My 16-year-old son, Keegan, tore his right ACL during a wrestling match. He had it rebuilt using a hamstring tendon graft. This choice was made because he also has Osgood Schlatters Disease. Two weeks after the surgery, it was discovered that his knee had become infected; the infection was identified as a staph infection, and the knee was washed. Keegan began two weeks of IV antibiotics (Clindamycin). At the two-week check, it was determined that his knee was still grossly infected and that the graft would have to be removed. The IV antibiotics continued for a total of three weeks, and he is now on his second week of oral antibiotics.

Keegan's doctor has stated that the next surgery will need to be done using an allograft or cadaver graft.

Neither Keegan or I am comfortable with this decision because of the healing time involved and, most importantly, the greater risk of transmitted infections and diseases.

I've been told that the ACL hamstring graft procedure could be repeated with a harvested hamstring tendon from the unaffected knee. Is this true? Does anyone have any knowledge of this procedure.

To date, this entire experience has been one long nightmare. Any help, information, or suggestions anyone could provide would be greatly appreciated.

My email address is hellerj@schenectady.k12.ny.us.