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Latest news and updates about Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust including MTW Hospitals Charity and research news.
Pioneering knee surgery study showcases results
More results from a trial of pioneering reconstructive knee surgery for young patients who have torn their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) have been presented at a national conference.
We are the only trust in the UK offering a new type of surgery as part of the LivD-ACL study, where children have their ACL reconstructed using a parent’s hamstring. This pioneering approach is carried out by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Nicholas Bowman alongside Orthopaedic and Research Physiotherapist, Helen Sankey.
Excellent outcomes have been reported for the first 30 patients (aged 10 - 17) who have returned to sport at the same level as before their injury. Six months after the surgery, all the donor parents scored their leg function the same as it was before the operation, and one has since completed an ultramarathon!
Mr Bowman presented the results at Wexham Cruciate 2026, one of the leading events dedicated to knee ligament surgery, bringing together experts, surgeons and healthcare professionals to explore the latest advancements in cruciate ligament reconstruction and sports knee surgery.