Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Sheets Improve Early Biomechanical Graft Strength in Rabbits After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background: Although various reconstruction techniques are available for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, a long recovery time is required before patients return to sports activities, as the reconstructed ACL requires time to regain strength. To date, several studies have reported use of mesenchymal stem cells in orthopaedic surgery; however, no studies have used adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) sheets in ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Hypothesis: ADSC sheet transplantation can improve biomechanical strength of the autograft used in ACLR.