FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF COMBINED MENISCAL REPAIR AND ACL RECONSTRUCTION.

Abstract

1304 Operative repair of meniscal injuries identified at the time of ACL reconstruction is becoming more common. The goal of this prospective study was to compare functional outcome for patients who undergo meniscal repair in conjunction with ACL reconstruction (ACL+M) and those with isolated ACL injury(ACL-I). There were 19 patients in the ACL+M group and 55 in the ACL-I group. Both groups were allowed immediate motion and weight bearing as tolerated and followed the same rehabilitation protocol. Outcomes were measured by KT-2000 laxity testing, isokinetic strength testing of quadriceps and hamstrings at 60 and 180 degrees/sec., four hopping tests, and the modified Noyes knee rating questionnaire. Analysis of Variance failed to reveal statistically significant differences between the two groups for the hopping tests, KT scores, and, isokinetic extension strength. A statistically significant difference was found between between groups for flexion strength but not when compared to body weight (p=0.04). The isolated difference in flexion strength was not reflected in subjective or objective functional scores. Based upon this study we conclude that training protocols need not be modified after ACL reconstruction whether or not concomitant meniscal repair is performed.