The autogenic ligament procedure: a technique for planned formation of an artificial neo-ligament.

A new surgical principle which can safely result in the formation of an artificial neo-ligament, and induce the adhesion of tissues is described. Under certain conditions, an implanted Mersilene tape may act as a template, provoking a controlled linear deposition of collagen which remained unchanged, even after removal of the tape. This was proven by retropubic implantation of Mersilene tapes in female dogs, in the position of the pubo-urethral ligament. The procedure relies on the normally negative aspects of wound healing for its effect, such as foreign body reaction, bacterial colonization, and continued tissue breakdown and regeneration.