Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction for adolescent patients with open physis

Abstract

Pediatric anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) can be considered a safe procedure with low complication rates, provided that surgery is performed correctly. Correct timing and indication for surgery are of capital importance and should take into consideration the child’s maturation process and his/her individual needs and desires. In recent years, particular attention has been given to the role of conservative treatment and follow-up visits with clinical investigation, magnetic resonance and laxity testing. This appears of special importance, since the young ACL-deficient knee can evolve with patient’s growth. This article provides a synthetic overview on the state of the art of pediatric ACL tears epidemiology, diagnosis, conservative treatment and surgical approaches.