Effects of Freeze-Thaw Cycles on Bone-Patellar Tendon-Bone Allograft
Author Information
Author(s): Jung Ho-Joong, Vangipuram Gautum, Fisher Matthew B, Yang Guoguang, Hsu Shanling, Bianchi John, Ronholdt Chad, Woo Savio L-Y
Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh
Hypothesis
How do multiple freeze-thaw cycles affect the biomechanical properties of human bone-patellar tendon-bone allografts?
Conclusion
The study found that up to 8 freeze-thaw cycles do not significantly affect the biomechanical properties of the BPTB allograft.
Supporting Evidence
- The stiffness of the BPTB graft showed no significant differences across the freeze-thaw groups.
- Creep measurements were similar among all freeze-thaw cycle groups.
- The ultimate load did not differ significantly between the groups.
Takeaway
This study shows that freezing and thawing a tendon multiple times doesn't hurt its strength, so doctors can safely use these tendons for surgery.
Methodology
The study involved tensile testing of BPTB specimens from 21 human donors, comparing properties after 1, 4, and 8 freeze-thaw cycles.
Limitations
The study did not analyze biochemical changes in the PT substance after freeze-thaw cycles.
Participant Demographics
21 human donors (13 males, 8 females) with a mean age of 63 years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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