Evaluation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Partial Tear Injury Management

Abstract

Background: Cruciate ligament is divided into two ligaments Cruciate Ligament & Posterior Cruciate Ligament) and is attached to the femur and tibia. The rate Cruciate Ligament partial tear is high among athletes and it is relatively high in comparison to other knee injuries. Cruciate Ligament partial tear commonly associated with hem-arthrosis of the knee and can evolve into complete tear. Various approaches have been suggested to treat Cruciate Ligament partial tear. However, deciding which approach to follow is still controversial. Objective: In this study we aimed at reviewing the current available literatures reporting on the management of partial tears of the ACL. Methods: PubMed database was used for articles selection, and the following keys used in the mesh (Anterior Cruciate Ligament /partial tear[Mesh] OR Anterior Cruciate Ligament /management[Mesh] OR Anterior Cruciate Ligament /outcomes[Mesh]). 10 studies were enrolled according to our inclusion, and exclusion criteria. Conclusion: The initial treatment after an ACL injury is rest, ice and usually crutches. Immobilization is important while the patient remains symptomatic. A course of conservative treatment by physiotherapy can be successful in patients not participating in strenuous physical activity. In patients with a high functional demand, even after a conservative program, surgical treatment is often required. Keeping ACL remnants when reconstructing the ACL is recommended. It might be beneficial on knee function because it preserves numerous mechanoreceptors that favor knee proprioception. In prepubescent children with several years of growth ahead, physical-sparing technique like Micheli technique is recommended. Less invasive techniques such as Thermal modification of knee’s connective tissues can be suggested in order to reduce the dilemma and difficulty of the operation for the surgeon.