Assessment of functional outcome of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in early and delayed presentation

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical techniques of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction have evolved over the past 3 decades along with debate regarding the timing of surgery. There is no consensus in the literature regarding the optimal time of surgical intervention. Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted on 30 patients who were diagnosed with an anterior cruciate ligament tear. Patients were equally categorised into 2 groups (15 patients) based on a presentation from time of injury as - early presentation group (3 weeks from injury). All these patients underwent reconstruction with Semitendinosus Gracilis or Peroneus longus autografts by the same surgeon where standard surgery and rehabilitation protocols were followed. Functional outcome after ligament reconstruction was assessed using the IKDC and Lysholm scores preoperatively and postoperatively at 6weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Results: The functional outcome of the knee showed better improvement in the delayed presentation group than the early presentation group in both IKDC and Tegner Lysholm scores in the initial follow-up. Both the groups also recovered with a good range of movement but the delayed group scored better than the early presentation group. But the difference was insignificant at the end of 1 year. Conclusion: The functional outcome and range of motion after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament is better after the healing of the soft tissue and bony contusion.