Use of Extracellular Matrix Bioscaffolds to Enhance ACL Healing: A Multidisciplinary Approach in a Goat Model

Due to the poor healing potential of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee, surgical reconstruction using soft tissue replacement grafts is performed to restore knee stability and function. However, the surgery has serious complications including a high incidence of donor site morbidity and the development of osteoarthritis in the long-term. Recently, functional tissue engineering approaches to heal an injured ACL using biological stimulation via growth factors and bioscaffolds have yielded some positive clinical and laboratory results. As the healing process for the ACL is slow, additional suture repair of the ACL has been needed to provide initial joint stability and to reduce the risk of injury to neighboring tissues.