Autografts Commonly Used in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

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Walter R. Shelton, MD and Bryan C. Fagan, MD Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is among the most common orthopaedic procedures in the United States, with >200,000 performed annually. Much has been published regarding the use of autograft versus allograft. Bone–patellar tendon–bone is the most frequently used autograft, but hamstring and quadriceps tendon grafts are common alternatives. Each graft has distinct advantages and disadvantages, and selection is individualized. Fixation methods vary by graft type. Fixation resulting in a construct that is too rigid may restrict knee range of motion. Donor site morbidity must be considered, as well. Autograft harvest may result in anterior knee pain, kneeling pain, anterior knee numbness, muscle weakness, and patellar fracture. Appropriate graft selection is essential to optimize outcomes.