Table 3 Key questions, selected studies and recommendations on use of synthetic grafts in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Is use of synthetic grafts effective in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury (with or without meniscal lesions and/or grade I/II focal chondral lesions) and a shared indication to arthroscopic reconstruction?

235 identified, 3 selected, 2 rated, 2 included

Clinical practice

Lack of evidence does not allow recommendation of use of synthetic graft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The little available evidence suggests possible future development of use of such materials, but further studies are needed to assess their effectiveness

Is use of synthetic grafts safe in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury (with or without meniscal lesions and/or grade I/II focal chondral lesions) and a shared indication to arthroscopic reconstruction?

48 identified, 0 selected, 0 rated, 0 included

Research

Randomized studies are recommended, aimed at comparing use of synthetic grafts and the best available techniques of autograft and allograft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Studies aimed at identifying synthetic materials and the most appropriate methodologies for their use are also recommended