Question - Surgery (allograft ACL reconstruction)

by Sandra

My 17 year old college football player injured himself at a game with what they called an "unhappy triad" He is to have surgery soon, but in meeting with the surgeon he talked about using a cadaver graft. Is that something to be concerned about? Is there a potential to reject the tissue? Is it possible to transmit disease with the cadaver? Thanks

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Question - Surgery (allograft ACL reconstruction)

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Nov 10, 2008
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allograft risks
by: Bart - SII

There are some very small risks associated with using an allograft (cadaver) for an ACL reconstruction. Rejection and infection are included in these possible risks, however, the incidence of either one occuring are small.

Allograft tissue goes through a sterilization process when it is prepared from the donor. Allografts have become a very popular choice for ACL reconstructions - they have less post-operative pain, quicker recovery of range of motion, and have shown good long term results. I have treated many patients with allografts and they have all done very well with their recovery.

Just like any surgery, there are some risks - Talk to your surgeon about your concerns and let them explain all of the possible risks. They will be able to give you specifics regarding incidence and the steps that are taken to prevent problems.

Bart

Oct 11, 2009
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acl
by: john

My friend used the cadaver and his body rejected it. Even if the chances are small why take that chance. You must understand this surgery hurts like hell. It is the worst pain you will be in. If you reject the cadaver you will go through the pain twice oh and physical therapu isn't pleasant either.