Examination of a biodegradable magnesium screw for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament: A pilot in vivo study in rabbits.

The reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament is, for the most part, currently performed with interference screws made of titanium or degradable polymers. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of biodegradable magnesium interference screws for such a procedure because of their known biocompatibility and reported osteoconductive effects. The left tibiae of each of 18 rabbits were implanted with a magnesium-based (MgYREZr-alloy) screw, and another 18 with a titanium-based control.