Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction In Adolescents Research Articles

Prevalence and Predictors of Concomitant Meniscal Surgery During Pediatric and Adolescent ACL Reconstruction: Analysis of 4729 Patients Over 20 Years at a Tertiary-Care Regional Children's Hospital.

The rate of concomitant meniscal procedures performed in conjunction with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is increasing. Few studies have examined these procedures in high-risk pediatric cohorts. That (1) the rates of meniscal repair compared with meniscectomy would increase throughout the study period and (2) patient-related factors would be able to predict the type of meniscal operation, which would differ according to age. Cohort study (prevalence); Level of evidence, 2. Natural language processing was used to extract clinical variables from notes of patients who underwent ACL reconstruction between 2000 and 2020 at a single institution. Patients were stratified to pediatric (5-13 years) and adolescent (14-19 years) cohorts. Linear regression was used to evaluate changes in the prevalence of concomitant meniscal surgery during the study period. Logistic regression was used to determine predictors of the need for and type of meniscal procedure. Of 4729 patients (mean age, 16 ± 2 years; 54.7% female) identified, 2458 patients (52%) underwent concomitant meniscal procedures (55% repair rate). The prevalence of lateral meniscal (LM) procedures increased in both pediatric and adolescent cohorts, whereas the prevalence of medial meniscal (MM) repair increased in the adolescent cohort (P = .02). In the adolescent cohort, older age was predictive of concomitant medial meniscectomy (P = .031). In the pediatric cohort, female sex was predictive of concomitant MM surgery and of undergoing lateral meniscectomy versus repair (P≤ .029). Female sex was associated with decreased odds of concomitant LM surgery in both cohorts (P≤ .018). Revision ACLR was predictive of concomitant MM surgery and of meniscectomy (medial and lateral) in the adolescent cohort (P < .001). Higher body mass index was associated with increased odds of undergoing medial meniscectomy versus repair in the pediatric cohort (P = .03). More than half of the young patients who underwent ACLR had meniscal pathology warranting surgical intervention. The prevalence of MM repair compared with meniscectomy in adolescents increased throughout the study period. Patients who underwent revision ACLR were more likely to undergo concomitant meniscal surgeries, which were more often meniscectomy. Female sex had mixed effects in both the pediatric and adolescent cohorts.

Postoperative Strength Differences at Short-Term Follow-Up Vary Based on Autograft Harvest Site After Adolescent Transphyseal Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and patient-reported outcomes of adolescent patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with quadriceps tendon (QT) versus hamstrings tendon (HT) autograft. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of adolescent patients ≤18 years treated at a single tertiary care children’s hospital who underwent primary transphyseal ACLR using QT or HT between January 2018-December 2019. All patients had minimum 6-month follow-up. Outcomes included isokinetic strength testing, postoperative PROMIS and IKDC scores, and complications. These were compared between QT and HT cohorts. ResultsA total of 84 patients were included (44 HT, 40 QT). The QT cohort had a higher proportion of male patients (62.5% vs 34.1%, p=0.01). At 3 months, those with HT had lower Hamstrings/Quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratios (60.7±11.0 vs 79.5±18.6, p<0.01) and flexion-limb symmetry index (LSI) (85.6±16.1 vs 95.5±15.7, p=0.01), while patients with QT had lower extension-LSI (67.3±9.5 vs 77.4±10.7, p<0.01). The H/Q ratio was lower at 6 months for patients with HT (59.4±11.5 vs 66.2±7.5, p<0.01). PROMIS/IKDC scores were not different at 3 months or latest follow-up. Patients with QT had more wound issues (20.0% vs 2.3%, p=0.01). Those receiving HT autograft had more ipsilateral knee injuries (18.2% vs 2.5%, p=0.03), but there was no difference in graft failure for HT and QT ACLR (9.1% vs 2.5%, p=0.36). ConclusionThere were no differences in PROM between patients receiving QT and HT autografts. QT grafts had more post-operative wound issues but a lower rate of ipsilateral knee complications (graft failure or meniscus tear). Differences in quadriceps and hamstrings strength post-operatively compared to the contralateral limb were observed for adolescent ACLR patients receiving QT and HT autografts, respectively. This contributed to higher H/Q ratios seen at 3 and 6 months postoperatively for patients receiving QT autografts. Level of EvidenceLevel III, retrospective comparative therapeutic study

Major Increase in Incidence of Pediatric ACL Reconstructions From 2005 to 2021: A Study From the Norwegian Knee Ligament Register

Background: The incidence of pediatric and adolescent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is increasing in several countries. It is uncertain whether this trend applies to countries that traditionally prefer an initial nonoperative treatment approach whenever possible, like Norway. Nationwide, long-term patient-reported outcomes and revision rates after ACLR in the pediatric population are also lacking. Purpose: To determine the incidence of pediatric ACLR in Norway since 2005, as well as to detect trends in surgical details and describe patient-reported outcomes up to 10 years after ACLR. Study Design: Descriptive cohort study. Methods: This study is based on prospectively collected data on girls ≤14 years and boys ≤16 years, registered in the Norwegian Knee Ligament Register at the time of their primary ACLR, between 2005 and 2021. The main outcome was the incidence of ACLR, adjusted to the corresponding population numbers for each year. The time trend was analyzed by comparing the mean of the first and last 3-year period (2005-2007 and 2019-2021). Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score preoperatively and at 2, 5, and 10 years postoperatively. Results: A total of 1476 patients (1484 cases) were included, with a mean follow-up of 8.1 years (range, 1-17). The incidence of pediatric ACLRs per 100,000 population increased from 18 to 26, which corresponds to an increase of 40% for boys and 55% for girls. Concurrent meniscal procedures increased significantly from 45% to 62%, and the proportion of meniscal repairs increased from 19% to 43% when comparing the first and last time period. The mean Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score values for the Sport and Recreation and Quality of Life subscales were between 72 and 75 at the 2-, 5- and 10-year follow-up. The 5-year revision rate was 9.9%. Conclusion: There was a major increase in incidence of pediatric ACLR in Norway during the study period. There was a shift in the approach to concomitant meniscal procedures from resection to repair, with more than a doubling of the proportion of meniscal repairs. Patient-reported outcomes revealed long-lasting reduced knee function.

Use of Peripheral Nerve Blocks Is Not Associated With Decreased Postoperative Opioid Prescription After ACL Reconstruction in Adolescents.

The rate of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and reconstruction in pediatric patients is increasing. Perioperative peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are widely used for pain management in this population. We used a multi-state administrative claims database to describe the effect of PNB after ACL reconstruction on postoperative opioid consumption. We identified patients 10 to 18 years old undergoing primary ACL reconstruction between 2014 and 2016 in an administrative claims database. Patients filling an outpatient perioperative prescription for opioids with at least 1 year of follow-up were included. We stratified patients based on PNB. Our primary outcome was opioid prescription patterns (in morphine milligram equivalents [MMEs]) and incidence of opioid represcription. Of the 4459 cases, 2432 (54.5%) of the patients were given a PNB during ACL reconstruction while 2027 (45.5%) were not. Patients with PNB were prescribed more MMEs per day (76.1±41.7 vs 62.7±35.7 MMEs, P<.001), more pills (63.6±53.1 vs 54.4±40.6 pills, P<.001), higher MMEs per pill (10.0±9.5 vs 8.3±5.0 MMEs, P<.001), and more total MMEs (460.6±259.4 vs 355.7±215.1 MMEs, P<.001) than patients without PNB. Adjusting for prescription patterns and demographic variables with logistic regression, PNBs were associated with a 60% increase in the odds of opioid represcription within 30 days and a 32% increase in the odds of opioid represcription within 90 days. We demonstrated an increase in postoperative opioid prescription rates with PNB after ACL reconstruction. [Orthopedics. 2024;47(2):83-88.].

Hamstring vs. All-Soft-Tissue Quadriceps Tendon Autograft for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Adolescent Athletes: Early Follow-Up Results of a Prospective Study

Background: The quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft has recently drawn attention for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Finding the best autograft option for adolescents after an ACL injury is essential to ensure them a high-quality active lifestyle. There are no studies comparing the all-soft-tissue QT autograft with the hamstring tendon (HT) autograft in such population. Methods: In this study, 68 patients younger than 18 years of age were assigned to the HT (38 patients) or the QT (30 patients) ACLR group. The groups were similar, allowing their comparison. The instrumented knee laxity was evaluated with a Genourob arthrometer. In total, 48 patients (27 HT and 21 QT) were tested 3 months post-op, and 45 patients (26 HT and 19 QT) were tested 6 months post-op. Results: We found that 3 months post-op, the side-to-side anterior tibial translation measurements (GNRB1) were worse in the HT than in the QT group (1.4 (0.2–5.2; 1.715) vs. 0.6 (0.1–2.1; 0.905) mm, p = 0.02). There was no difference in side-to-side anterior tibial translation at 6 months post-op (GNRB2) between the HT and the QT group (1 (0.2–5.3; 1.519) vs. 1.1 (0.3–3.4; 1.279) mm, p = 0.927). At 3 months post-op, the side-to-side anterior tibial translation (GNRB1) was worse in males than in females. irrespective of the graft choice (1.45 (0.1–5.2; 1.696) vs. 0.4 (0.1–3.4; 0.89) mm, p = 0.016). The displacement curve slopes 6 months post-op were better for females (3 (0–13.1; 3.335) vs. 5.3 (0–26.1; 7.848), p = 0.014). At 3 months post-op, the GNRB measurements showed that the side-to-side anterior tibial translation (GNRB1) was better for females when the HT autograft had been used (0.45 (0.2–3.4; 0.942) vs. 2.4 (0.3–5.2; 2.333) mm, p = 0.003). In general, both autografts provided excellent objective outcomes at early follow-up. Conclusions: The all-soft-tissue QT autograft should be considered as a reliable alternative for ACLR in adolescents. This autograft has at least the same properties as the HT autograft in the early stages after ACL reconstruction in adolescent athletes and, in some respects, seems superior to the HT autograft. Research should continue to find the best possible graft choice for the most active and willing-to-return-to-sport population.

Opioid Represcriptions After ACL Reconstruction in Adolescents Are Associated With Subsequent Opioid Use Disorder.

Postoperative opioid prescriptions may confer a risk for subsequent opioid use disorders (OUDs). For many children, postoperative analgesia is often the first opioid exposure. The rates of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in pediatric populations are rising. Here, we use an administrative claims database to describe opioid prescription patterns after ACL reconstruction and their effect on subsequent risk of OUD. Using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9, ICD-10, and CPT codes, we identified patients, with ages 10 to 18, undergoing primary ACL reconstruction between 2014 and 2016 with minimum 1 year follow-up in the Optum Clinformatics Data Mart, which is a nationally representative administrative claims database. Demographic variables and prescription patterns (in morphine milligram equivalents [MMEs]) were analyzed using univariate tests and multivariable logistic regression to determine any potential association with the appearance of anew an ICD-9 or ICD-10 code for OUD within 1 year of the initial procedure. A total of 4459 cases were included and 29 (0.7%) of these patients were diagnosed with an OUD within 1 year of surgery. Upon univariate analysis, opioid represcriptions within 6 weeks were significantly more common among patients with OUD; 27.6% vs. 9.7% of patients that did not develop a new diagnosis of OUD ( P =0.005). Multivariable logistic regression indicated an independent significant relationship between total MMEs initially prescribed and the odds of a subsequent OUD diagnosis: for each additional 100 MMEs prescribed in total, the odds of OUD increased by 13% ( P =0.002). Patients with a represcription within 6 weeks of surgery had an average increase in the odds of OUD by 161% ( P =0.027). In this cohort of patient ages 10 to 18 undergoing primary isolated ACL reconstruction, we found substantial variability in opiate prescribing patterns and higher initial opioid prescription volume, as well as opioid represcription within 6 weeks were predictive of the subsequent development of OUD. Level III.

Techniques in Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

In recent years, the frequency of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in skeletally immature patients has increased. Because distal femoral and proximal tibial physes account for the majority of lower-extremity growth, surgical technique and graft selection are crucial to minimize iatrogenic physeal injury. Combined extra- and intra-articular, all-epiphyseal, and transphyseal with soft-tissue grafts are the most common ACLR techniques used in children. Combined extra- and intra-articular ACLR typically is offered to prepubescent patients with ≥2 years of growth remaining. This technique uses iliotibial band (ITB) autograft passed over the lateral femoral condyle and fixed to the anterior tibial periosteum. All-epiphyseal ACLR is similarly used in patients with ≥2 years of growth remaining, provided sufficient epiphyseal maturity to accommodate an all-epiphyseal socket because both the femoral and tibial tunnels are contained within the epiphyses. In postpubertal patients with <2 years of growth remaining, transphyseal ACLR using a soft-tissue autograft (typically hamstring or quadriceps tendon) and metaphyseal femoral fixation can be performed. This minimizes risk of physeal injury. In borderline patients with approximately 2 years of growth remaining, an additional option includes partial transphyseal ACLR, which uses a soft-tissue graft and a transphyseal tibial tunnel, but an all-epiphyseal or over-the-top femoral graft trajectory. Recently, transphyseal ITB ACLR and hybrid transphyseal hamstring with combined over-the-top ITB ACLR also have been described. Existing clinical studies focused on pediatric and adolescent ACL reconstructions have reported a wide range of graft rupture rates for these techniques (4.3%-25%), with contralateral ACL injury rates of 2.9% to 15.6%. Ongoing multicenter research is underway to directly compare surgical techniques for this demographic and quantify graft rupture rates and other clinical outcomes.

ACL Research Retreat IX Summary Statement: The Pediatric Athlete, March 17-19, 2022; High Point, North Carolina.

ACL Research Retreat IX Summary Statement: The Pediatric Athlete, March 17-19, 2022; High Point, North Carolina.

Influence of Sex, Race/Ethnicity, and Socioeconomic Factors on Meniscal Treatment With Pediatric and Adolescent ACL Reconstruction

Background: The rate of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is increasing over time in pediatric/adolescent populations, but there is less evidence to support how concomitant meniscal procedures are changing over time. There are also less data to suggest which characteristics are associated with meniscectomy versus meniscal repair treatment. Hypothesis: Age, sex, race/ethnicity, income, and insurance type may independently affect the rate of concomitant meniscal procedures and treatment modalities in pediatric patients with ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: The Pediatric Health Information System database was queried for all patients aged ≤18 years who underwent ACL reconstruction with or without concomitant meniscal procedures from 2015 to 2019. Basic demographic data including age, sex, self-identified race/ethnicity, rural-urban commuting area code, predicted median income, and insurance status were collected. Linear regression was used to model trends and multiple logistic regression modeling was used to test for associations. Results: A total of 14,398 patients aged ≤18 years underwent ACL reconstruction during the study period, with 8337 patients (58%) having concomitant meniscal procedures with a 1.24-fold increase over 5 years. Of the concomitant meniscal treatment cohort, 41% had a meniscectomy and 59% had meniscal repair. There was a 0.82-fold change in meniscectomy and a 1.67-fold increase in meniscal repair during the study period. Male patients, older patients, Black race, living in an urban area, and those with nonprivate insurance had increased odds of undergoing a concomitant meniscal procedure (all P < .05). Patients of non-White race and those with nonprivate insurance had increased odds of having a meniscectomy versus meniscal repair (all P < .05). There were no associations detected between income bracket and the outcomes in this study. Conclusion: This study shows that in pediatric and adolescent patients undergoing ACL reconstruction, there was a rise in concomitant meniscal procedures from 2015 to 2019. In addition, patients of non-White race and those with nonprivate insurance have increased odds of undergoing meniscectomy versus meniscal repair.

Poster 223: Evidence-Based Opioid Prescribing Guidelines Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR)

Objectives:Opioid prescriptions following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) vary substantially.1-3 Expert panel guidelines recommend up to 50 pills for ACLR with many surgeons refilling 40 or more tablets.1,3 The CDC warns that a five-day supply is sufficient to develop opiate dependence.4 Current recommendations are based on consensus rather than evidence and place a vulnerable population at risk for opiate misuse.2,3 Orthopaedic surgeons do not possess evidence driven regimens for opioid prescriptions following ACLR.5,6 The purpose of this study was to develop evidence-based prescription guidelines for ACLR. We hypothesized that patients would require fewer opioids than traditional guidelines suggest with a high rate of patient satisfaction.1. Beck, J.J., et al., Prospective Study of Acute Opioid Use After Adolescent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Shows No Effect From Patient- or Surgical-Related Factors. J Am Acad Orthop Surg, 2020. 28(7): p. 293-300.2. Wyles, C.C., et al., Implementation of Procedure-Specific Opioid Guidelines: A Readily Employable Strategy to Improve Consistency and Decrease Excessive Prescribing Following Orthopaedic Surgery. JB JS Open Access, 2020. 5(1): p. e0050.3. Stepan, J.G., et al., Development of an Institutional Opioid Prescriber Education Program and Opioid-Prescribing Guidelines: Impact on Prescribing Practices. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 2019. 101(1): p. 5-13.4. Shah A HC, Martin BC. Characteristics of Initial Prescription Episodes and Likelihood of Long-Term Opioid Use — United States, 2006–2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017:265-269.5. Reider, B. Opioid Epidemic. Am J Sports Med, 2019. 44(5): p. 1039-1042.6. Morris BJ, Mir HR. The opioid epidemic: Impact on orthopaedic surgery. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2015;23: 267-271.Methods:This multicenter prospective study enrolled 46 patients undergoing ACLR. Subject demographics and opioid prescriptions were recorded at the time of enrollment. All patients were given instructions and education on opiate use. All patients followed the same perioperative, multimodal analgesic regimen (Table 1). Following surgery, patients were given postoperative “Pain Journals” to document visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and to track their daily opioid consumption for the first 7 postoperative days (PODs) and on postoperative visit (POV) at 14 days. No changes were made to existing prescribing habits, postoperative physical rehabilitation, or surgical methodology.Results:35 patients were included in this analysis. Mean subject age was 39 years old. 46% of patients were male; 54% of patients were female. Patients were prescribed a median of 15 oxycodone 5 mg pills and consumed a median of 2 pills postoperatively. Mean postoperative opioid consumption was 5 pills (range 0 to 31 pills). 42% of patients consumed 0 opioid pills; 77% of patients consumed ≤ 5 opioid pills; 73% of patients discontinued opioid use after POD 2 (Figure 1). Patients reported a mean daily VAS value of 2.5 of 10; mean satisfaction with pain management was high at 4.16/5 on a Likert satisfaction score. Overall, patients consumed a mean 28% of their opioid prescriptions, leaving 230 opioid pills not consumed.Conclusions:This study suggests that current expert panels may be recommending an unrequired volume of opioids. As the third largest prescriber of opiate medication, orthopedic surgeons are charged with reducing the risk of opiate dependence, particularly in the ACLR vulnerable population.6 Based on our findings, patients only require 15 Oxycodone 5mg tablets following ACLR. Despite this lower volume prescription, mean pain scores remained below 3/10, patient satisfaction with pain control remained high, and 72% of opiate medication prescribed was not used.

Paper 23: The Impact of Graft Choice on Return to Sport Testing After Adolescent ACL Reconstruction

Objectives:The number of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and reconstructions observed in the adolescent population continues to rise. While the use of quadriceps tendon autograft has increased in popularity in this population, there remains no consensus on the ideal graft for pediatric ACL reconstruction. The objective of this study was to compare three commonly used ACL graft types with respect to i) performance on return to sport assessments and ii) timing to clearance for return to sports in an adolescent population.Methods:All patients, less than or equal to 19 years of age, who underwent reconstruction for ACL tears between 2016 and 2020 at a large, urban, academic institution were identified. Graft choice was made in a shared decision-making model with patient, parents, and surgeon. Patient demographics, laterality, graft type, time from surgery to clearance, number of physical therapy (PT) visits, and presence of concomitant meniscus injuries were collected from the electronic medical record. At a minimum of 6 months postoperatively, patients completed a formal return to sport test (RTS) including isometric strength assessments, Y- balance testing, and hop testing. Treatment cohorts based on graft type were compared with respect to RTS performance and timing to clearance. Associations between patient demographics and return to sport timing and performance were also assessed. Clearance for return to sport was determined by the treating surgeon with limb symmetry index of 90% on RTS as the goal for clearance.Results:A total of 110 adolescents, 44 female (40%), with a mean age of 16.3 years (SD, 1.7; range, 10-19) met our inclusion criteria (Table 1). Average time to first RTS assessment was 280 days (9.3 months) and average time to clearance was 371 days (12.2 months) after surgery. ACL grafts included 58 (52.7%) hamstring autografts, 26 (23.6%) bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts, 21 (19.1%) bone quadriceps (BQT) autografts, and 5 (4.6%) iliotibial band (ITB) autografts. ITB patients were younger on average (12.5 years old) than those receiving hamstring, BPTB or BQT grafts. There were no significant differences between groups with respect to laterality, number of physical therapy visits, or rate of concurrent meniscus surgery.Patients receiving BQT grafts were more likely to be cleared within 1 year of surgery compared to hamstring graft patients (82.4% vs. 39.6%, p=0.002) and had similar rates of clearance within 1 year compared to BPTB patients (82.4% vs. 65.2%, p=0.230). Patients with BQT and BPTB grafts both demonstrated significantly better hamstring strength symmetry compared to hamstring graft patients (5.8% strength deficit compared to healthy side vs. 1.3% vs. 29.3%, p<0.001) (Table 2). There were no differences in quadriceps strength or hop test asymmetry between graft types. Multivariate regression with age, gender, and number of PT sessions included as covariates demonstrated that hamstring graft choice was associated with decreased odds of clearance at 1 year.Conclusions:In this study of 110 adolescent ACL reconstruction patients who underwent return to sport evaluations, we found no significant difference between BPTB and BQT autografts with respect to RTS performance and time to clearance. Hamstring autograft was associated with significantly worse hamstring strength asymmetry and significantly lower rates of clearance within 1 year. Concurrent meniscus surgery, age, gender, and number of PT sessions completed prior to RTS evaluation were not significantly associated with timing of clearance or performance on the RTS assessment.Table 1.Patient Demographics and Surgical CharacteristicsTable 2.Patient Demographics and Performance by 3 Common Graft Types

DELAY TO ACL RECONSTRUCTION IN PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT PATIENTS IS ASSOCIATED WITH A LINEAR INCREASE IN THE RISK OF MEDIAL MENISCAL TEARS

Background:Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are frequently associated with meniscal tears. Previous studies have shown that secondary meniscal tears—occurring after the initial ACL injury—are associated with greater delays from injury to ACL reconstruction (ACLR), but frequently use dichotomous categories of acute versus delayed ACLR.Purpose:As meniscal damage is likely accrued constantly over time, we investigated the variability of concurrent meniscal injuries as a function of time from injury to ACLR in a pediatric and adolescent population.Methods:We performed a retrospective review of all patients ≤18 years who underwent an ACLR between 2014 and 2018 at one of two tertiary academic hospitals. Outliers were excluded if time from injury to ACLR was greater than 78 weeks. Records were reviewed to assess patients’ dates of injury and surgery. The prevalence of concurrent medial and/or lateral meniscal injury was evaluated at the time of surgery for each patient. Adjusted relative risks (ARRs) of meniscal injury were calculated using Poisson regression models adjusted for age, sex, and body-mass index. Logistic regression was used to model the predicted probability of medial meniscal tears.Results:546 patients met inclusion criteria. The mean age of participants was 15.3 years (S.D., 1.6), and 277 (50.7%) patients were male. Overall, 344 (63.0%) patients had a meniscal tear. 169 (49.1%) tears occurred at the medial meniscus, and 257 (74.7%) occurred at the lateral meniscus (Table 1). Compared to females, males had a greater risk of lateral meniscal injury (ARR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.20-1.77) but not medial meniscal injury (ARR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.77-1.31) (Figure 1). When considering all meniscal tears, time from injury to ACLR was not associated with increased risk of a tear (ARR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.01). However, for medial meniscal tears, there was a significant association between time from injury to ACLR, in weeks, and meniscal tears (ARR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01-1.03, P = 0.003). A ten-week delay was associated with a 20% increased risk of medial meniscal injury (Figure 2).Conclusion:In pediatric and adolescent ACLR patients, the risk of any meniscal injury was not associated with delay from injury to surgery. However, the risk of medial meniscal injury increased by 2% each week from injury to surgery.Figure 1.Risk ratios for medial, lateral, or any meniscal tear (medial or lateral) adjusted for age, sex, and body-mass indexFigure 2.Predicted probability of medial meniscal tear

Opiate prescribing patterns in the adolescent population following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

We sought to determine prescribing patterns for opioid analgesia following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction among age- and gender-stratified adolescents in a nationally representative database. A retrospective study. PearlDiver Patient Records. Outpatient opioid claims within 30 days of surgery were extracted. The patients were defined into age groups 10-14 ("younger") and 15-19 ("older"). A total of 1,139 patients were included in this study (536 female and 603 males) with 108 patients in the 10-14 age category and 1,034 patients in the 15-19 category. The primary study outcome measures the average number of opioid pills administered, average total morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) prescribed, and the average prescription strength (MMEs/pill). No difference was found in the average number of pills (p = 0.26) or normalized total MMEs (p = 0.312) prescribed by age group. Normalized total morphine equivalents per prescription was significantly lower in females than males (p = 0.005). Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that increasing patient age was predictive of fewer total pills (p = 0.017), after accounting for gender. There are age- and gender-based disparities in prescription patterns for adolescent ACL reconstruction. Our findings indicate that patients in the older age group on average received fewer pills than the younger age group, which consequently trended toward receiving higher total MMEs prescribed. This suggests that surgeons may be inadvertently overprescribing in the younger cohort. Additional studies that account for concurrent factors should be conducted to observe potentially similar trends.

The outcomes of quadriceps tendon autograft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in adolescent athletes: a retrospective case series.

Multiple graft options exist for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in an adolescent athlete. Patellar tendon harvest can lead to anterior knee pain, while hamstring tendon harvest can affect knee flexion strength and alter mechanics. Allograft is less desirable in pediatric patients due to the higher failure rate and slight risk of disease transmission. Quadriceps tendon autograft has rarely been reported for adolescent ACL reconstruction in the USA, but is an excellent option due to its large size, low donor site morbidity, and versatility. The purpose of this study is to report the outcomes of adolescents who have undergone ACL reconstruction using quadriceps tendon autograft. Twenty-two ACL reconstructions using the quadriceps autograft were performed on 21 pediatric patients by the senior author between 2010 and 2017. The patient's demographics, injury characteristics, imaging, physical examination findings, operative findings, outcomes and sports were recorded. The average age at the time of surgery was 15years. Two patients had open physes; the remainder had closing physes. 64% of patients had additional meniscal tears and 76% had bony contusions. The average duration of follow-up was 2.8years (range 2-5years). At final follow-up, there were no angular deformities or leg length discrepancies. The average quadriceps atrophy of the operative leg was 4mm. The average Lysholm score was 98. 86% of patients returned to sports. No patients had re-rupture of their operative ACL. No incidences of infections, numbness, or anterior knee pain were reported. Two patients had a second arthroscopy for re-injury, revealing new meniscal tears but intact ACL grafts. Use of quadriceps tendon autograft for ACL reconstruction in adolescent patients allows reliable return to sport with minimal complications. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Reduction of Risk Factors for ACL Re-injuries using an Innovative Biofeedback Approach: Rationale and Design

Nearly 1 in 60 adolescent athletes will suffer anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries with 90% of these athletes electing to undergo an ACL reconstruction (ACLR) at an estimated annual cost of $3 billion. While ACLR and subsequent rehabilitation allow these athletes to return to sports, they have a 15-fold increased risk of second ACL injuries. The modification of post-operative rehabilitation to improve movement and loading symmetry using visual and tactile biofeedback could decrease the risk factors for sustaining a second ACL injury. Participants included 40 adolescent ACLR patients who were intending to return to full sport participation. This preliminary randomized controlled trial (RCT) examined the changes in knee extension moment symmetry, a known risk factor for second ACL injuries, during landing from a stop-jump task between the following time-points: pre-intervention, immediate post-intervention, and subsequent follow-up 6-weeks post-intervention. Participants met twice per week for six-weeks (12-session). The intervention included bilateral squat biofeedback (visual and tactile); the attention control group attended weekly educational sessions. This RCT enrolled and randomize 40 participants over a two-and-a-half-year period. All participants were greater than 4.5 months post-op from a primary, unilateral ACLR and were released to participate by their treating physician. The findings from this pilot biofeedback RCT will provide critical effect size estimates for use in subsequent larger clinical trials.

Early Operative Versus Delayed Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment of Pediatric and Adolescent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Treatment options for pediatric and adolescent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries include early operative, delayed operative, and nonoperative management. Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal treatment for these injuries. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to determine the optimal treatment strategy for ACL injuries in pediatric and adolescent patients. We hypothesized that (1) early ACL reconstruction results in fewer meniscal tears than delayed reconstruction but yields no difference in knee stability and (2) when compared with nonoperative management, any operative management results in fewer meniscal tears and cartilage injuries, greater knee stability, and higher return-to-sport rates. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic search of databases was performed including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Inclusion criteria were a pediatric and adolescent patient population (≤19 years old at surgery), the reporting of clinical outcomes after treatment of primary ACL injury, and original scientific research article. Exclusion criteria were revision ACL reconstruction, tibial spine avulsion fracture, case report or small case series (<5 patients), non–English language manuscripts, multiligamentous injuries, and nonclinical studies. Results: A total of 30 studies containing 50 cohorts and representing 1176 patients met our criteria. With respect to nonoperative treatment, knee instability was observed in 20% to 100%, and return to preinjury level of sports ranged from 6% to 50% at final follow-up. Regarding operative treatment, meta-analysis results favored early ACL reconstruction over delayed reconstruction (>12 weeks) for the presence of any meniscal tear (odds ratio, 0.23; P = .006) and irreparable meniscal tear (odds ratio, 0.31; P = .001). Comparison of any side-to-side differences in KT-1000 arthrometer testing did not favor early or delayed ACL reconstruction in either continuous mean differences (P = .413) or proportion with difference ≥3 mm (P = .181). Return to preinjury level of competition rates for early and delayed ACL reconstruction ranged from 57% to 100%. Conclusion: Delaying ACL reconstruction in pediatric or adolescent patients for >12 weeks significantly increased the risk of meniscal injuries and irreparable meniscal tears; however, early and delayed operative treatment achieved satisfactory knee stability. Nonoperative management resulted in high rates of residual knee instability, increased risk of meniscal tears, and comparatively low rates of return to sports.

Predictive Value of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Based Coronal Lateral Collateral Ligament Sign on Adolescent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Graft Failure

Background: The coronal lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sign is the presence of the full length of the LCL visualized on a single coronal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slice at the posterolateral corner of the knee. The coronal LCL sign has been shown to be associated with elevated measures of anterior tibial translation and internal rotation in the setting of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. Hypothesis: The coronal LCL sign (with greater anterior translation, internal rotation, and posterior slope of the tibia) will indicate a greater risk for graft failure after ACL reconstructive surgery. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Retrospective review was performed of adolescent patients with ACL reconstruction: a cohort without graft failure and a cohort with graft failure. MRI was utilized to measure tibial translation and femorotibial rotation and to identify the coronal LCL sign. The posterior tibial slope was measured on lateral radiographs. Patient-reported outcomes were collected. Results: We identified 114 patients with no graft failure and 39 patients with graft failure who met all criteria, with a mean follow-up time of 3.5 years (range, 2-9.4 years). Anterior tibial translation was associated with anterolateral complex injury (P < .001) but not graft failure (P = .06). Internal tibial rotation was associated with anterolateral complex injury (P < .001) and graft failure (P = .042). Posterior tibial slope was associated with graft failure (P = .044). The coronal LCL sign was associated with anterolateral complex injury (P < .001) and graft failure (P = .013), with an odds ratio of 4.3 for graft failure (95% CI, 1.6-11.6; P = .003). Subjective patient-reported outcomes and return to previous level of sport were not associated with failure. Comparison of MRI before and after ACL reconstruction in the graft failure cohort demonstrated a reduced value in internal rotation (P = .003) but no change in coronal LCL sign (P = .922). Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that tibial internal rotation and posterior slope are independent predictors of ACL graft failure in adolescents. Although the value of internal rotation could be improved with ACL reconstruction, the presence of the coronal LCL sign persisted over time and was predictive of graft rupture (without the need to make measurements or memorize values of significant risk). Together, these factors indicate that greater initial knee deformity after initial ACL tear predicts greater risk for future graft failure.

A Practical Pre-Operative Predictive Model for Determining Hamstring Autograft Size for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Children and Adolescents

Objectives:The most commonly used graft for pediatric and adolescent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is the hamstring autograft. Recent evidence has suggested that graft sizes less than 8 mm and age less than 20 years old are the most significant factors influencing graft failure. Additionally, studies examining the role of augmenting smaller grafts with allograft have demonstrated mixed results and potentially increased failure rates. Efforts to predict hamstring size preoperatively using MRI and ultrasound in the adult population have shown promise. However, there have been no studies in an entirely pediatric population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of MRI in determining hamstring autograft size preoperatively for pediatric ACL reconstructions.Methods:Children and adolescents from 10-20 years old that had undergone ACL reconstruction using hamstring autograft were identified from 2017-2018. Semitendinosus and gracilis cross-sectional area and diameter were measured on preoperative knee MRIs using the field of interest (FOI) and distance measurement tools. The slice used for measurement was identified as the largest section by the measuring surgeon. Two surgeons independently measured all MRIs. Preoperative demographic data (height, weight, body mass index (BMI), gender) and operative data (graft size) was collected. Data was analyzed by an independent statistician. Ordinal regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between demographic data and graft size. A Classification and Regression Tree (CART) was constructed to identify predictors for the pre-determined graft sizes of 8 mm. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis were then created to assess the performance of the predictive model and determine sensitivity and specificity. All analyses were performed using SPSS v. 24 with alpha set at p<0.05 to declare significance.Results:One hundred and ten children (54 boys, 56 girls) were included in this study with an average age of 15.93 years (range 11.81-20.22) and average BMI of 25.98 (range 16.02-40.08). CART analysis determined that if the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons were greater than 31.17 mm then 87.5% of children had graft sizes of 8 mm or greater. The ROC analysis determined the model to have an 80% sensitivity and 74% specificity for predicting a graft size of 8 mm or larger.Conclusion:A preoperative summation of the cross-sectional areas of the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons greater than 31.17 mm predicts an intraoperative graft size of 8 mm or larger in 87.5% of children.Figure 1.Table 1:Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements comparing children with graft sizes less than 8 mm with those 8 mm or greater. 95% Confidence Interval Mean Lower Upper P-value Height (cm)<8162.28159.66164.908+169.02166.56171.47<0.001Weight (kg)<867.3562.2772.438+76.8871.1682.600.014BMI<825.3823.7726.998+26.5725.1228.020.274Age (years)<815.8915.3916.388+15.9715.5716.370.793Semitendinosus<815.8314.8616.81 Cross-sectional Area8+19.1518.1420.16<0.001Semitendinosus Diameter<84.824.664.99 (Anteroposterior)8+5.174.975.370.009Semitendinosus Diameter<84.023.844.21 (Medial/lateral)8+4.494.334.65<0.001Gracillis<89.849.2210.46 Cross-sectional Area8+11.3310.6811.980.001Gracillis Diameter<84.224.094.36 (Anteroposterior)8+4.584.364.800.01Gracillis Diameter<82.872.752.99 (Medial/lateral)8+3.102.973.220.013Semitendinosus + Gracillis<825.6724.3227.02 Cross-sectional Area8+30.4829.0331.93<0.001Diameter Sum<815.9415.5516.338+17.3316.9017.77<0.001

Graft Choice for Adolescent Athletes Returning to High-Risk Sports: A Matched Cohort Analysis of Patellar Tendon and Hamstring Autografts

Objectives:Graft selection for skeletally mature adolescents undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is guided by surgeon and patient preference. In young patients returning to high-risk cutting and pivoting sports, graft rupture is the most feared complication of ACL reconstruction. Some studies have demonstrated slightly lower rates of graft failure and decreased laxity in the short term associated with patellar tendon (BTB) autografts as compared to hamstring (HS) autografts, but these studies are limited by their heterogeneity of ages and activity level. The purpose of this study is to compare the rates of graft failure between BTB and HS ACL reconstruction cohorts matched by age, sex, and sport.Methods:A single-institution retrospective review was performed of consecutive patients less than 19 years of age treated with ACL reconstructions using either patellar tendon (BTB) or hamstring (HS) autograft performed by a single surgeon. Skeletally mature or nearly mature patients in “high-risk” ACL injury sports (basketball, football, soccer, lacrosse, and gymnastics) were initially treated with hamstring autografts but the graft preference transitioned to BTB autografts as the preferred graft choice during the study period. This transition in graft preference for adolescents participating in “high risk” sports allows for a comparison of outcomes based on graft types. Inclusion criteria were ages 13 – 18 years, participation in a “high risk” sport, and minimum 24-month follow-up. The two cohorts of patients were matched by age, gender, and sport. The primary outcome measure was graft rupture.Results:One hundred twenty-six patients with an average age of 15.8 years (range 13 – 18 years) met inclusion criteria. There were 60 BTB reconstructions and 66 HS reconstructions. There were 55 females and 71 males. There was no difference in age, sex, BMI, or laterality between groups. There were more patients who played soccer in the BTB cohort (44%) vs HS cohort (22%) and fewer who played basketball in the BTB cohort (24%) vs HS cohort (38%), p = 0.005. There were no differences between the BTB and HS cohorts in terms of meniscus tears (60% v 68%, p = 0.34), meniscus repair (20% v 30%, p = 0.19), or partial meniscectomy (33% v 39%, p = 0.48). Mean duration of follow-up was 41 months (range 24-78 months). There was a difference in follow-up between cohorts (BTB 36 months and HS 50 months, p < 0.05). There were 16 graft ruptures (12.6%). There was no difference in the rate of graft rupture between cohorts (BTB 10.0% vs HS 15.2%, p = 0.45). Mean time to graft rupture was 21 months (range 8 – 35 months) and Kaplan-Meier survival curves demonstrated no difference between cohorts. The mean age of graft failures within the BTB cohort was 15.5 years as compared to 16.1 years for those that did not have a graft failure (p=0.268). The mean age of graft failures within the HS cohort was 14.9 years as compared to 15.9 years for those that did not have a graft failure (p<0.05).Conclusion:ACL reconstruction in adolescents returning to high-risk sports can be performed utilizing BTB or HS autografts with similar rates of graft rupture. Patients under the age of 15 years have a greater risk of failure associated with HS autograft as compared to patients 16 years of age and older with the same graft. In contrast, BTB grafts have similar failure rates regardless of age. There is a trend toward lower rates of graft rupture associated with BTB autografts, but additional patients will be necessary to determine if this trend will become a statistically significant difference.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Re-tear and Revision Reconstruction in the Skeletally Immature Athlete.

With an increase in high-demand sporting activity, the rate of pediatric and adolescent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is increasing. Yet, the failure rates after reconstruction are much higher than the adult population. The purpose of this paper is to understand failure rates, reasons for graft failure, and strategies for successful revision surgery. A complete understanding of the failure etiology is essential for the clinician treating this population prior to revision. This begins with an assessment of post-operative patient compliance and sporting activity. Surgical technique must then be scrutinized for non-anatomic tunnel placement and poor graft size/type. Concurrent bony deformity must also be addressed including lower extremity valgus alignment and tibial slope abnormalities. Meniscus and chondral injury must be aggressively treated. Furthermore, imaging must be examined to look for missed posterolateral corner injury. Lateral extra-articular tenodesis (in the setting of ligamentous laxity or rotational instability) may be also indicated as well. The surgeon can then choose a graft type and surgical technique that optimizes outcome and respects skeletal growth. Prior to surgical intervention, the clinician must also counsel patients in regard to the guarded prognosis and outcomes in this setting. Prolonged rehabilitation protocols/return-to-play timing as well as sporting activity modification in the post-operative period after revision are critical. There is limited literature on revision ACL reconstruction in the skeletally immature athlete. An understanding of all the risk factors for failure is essential in order to achieve treatment success.