Effects of Local Administration of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Mechanical Characteristics of the Semitendinosus Tendon Graft after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Sheep

Abstract

Exogenous VEGF application for ACL reconstruction can induce an increase in knee laxity and a decrease in the stiffness of the grafted tendon at least temporarily after ACL reconstruction. These potentially negative mechanical effects need to be taken into account when considering clinical use of VEGF.