NICE has developed a medtech innovation briefing (MIB) on LARS for reconstructing damaged intra-articular cruciate knee ligaments.

The LARS (ligament augmentation and reconstruction system) is a synthetic scaffold indicated for the repair and reconstruction of damaged ligaments. Comparative studies show no statistically significant differences in the majority of outcomes for people undergoing LARS procedures compared with people treated with an autograft at a follow-up of 4 years. One study reported statistically significantly less laxity for LARs procedures. Each LARS costs £1,391.

Medtech innovation briefings provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

Medtech innovation briefings are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.