Initial fixation strength of two bioabsorbable pins for the fixation of hamstring grafts compared to interference screw fixation: single cycle and cyclic loading.

BACKGROUND During the early postoperative period, the fixation of a hamstring graft to the bone tunnel is the primary factor in limiting rehabilitation. HYPOTHESIS The initial fixation strength of a double cross pin fixation technique is comparable with the biodegradable interference screw fixation technique. STUDY DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. METHODS The authors examined the initial fixation strength of two 3.3-mm bioabsorbable pins compared to interference screws for hamstring grafts in bovine knees. RESULTS Analysis of yield load, maximum load, and stiffness in the single-cycle loading test showed no statistically significant differences for cross pin and interference fixation (P <.05). For cross pins and interference screws, the mean displacement under 1000 cycles to 250 N was 5.07 ( +/- 1.9) mm and 4.81 ( +/- 2.5) mm, stiffness 252 ( +/- 78) N/mm and 289 ( +/- 148) N/mm. Only grafts fixed with cross pins survived 1000 cycles to 450 N. CONCLUSION The initial fixation strength of the double cross pin technique is comparable to that of interference screw fixation with a stiffness comparable to that of the native ACL. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Hamstring graft fixation using two cross pins provides an alternative to bioabsorbable interference screw fixation.