The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery

Yoshitsugu Takeda, M.D., John W. Xerogeanes, M.D., Glen A. Livesay M.S., Freddie H. Fu, M.D., and Savio L-Y Woo; Ph.D.


Knowledge about the biomechanical function of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is very important in the treatment of the ACL deficient knee. This article presents an overview of the biomechanical function of the ACL, including its structural and mechanical properties as well as its role in knee stabilization and normal kinematics. Tensile properties of the prospective biological grafts and future directions in ACL research are also discussed. Key Words: Anterior cruciate ligament/ Stability/ Tensile property/ Biological graft/ Force/ Muscle contraction.