After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Research Articles

Association of Graft Maturity on MRI With Return to Sports at 9 Months After Primary Single-Bundle ACL Reconstruction With Autologous Hamstring Graft.

The relationship between graft maturity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and return to sports (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is unclear. To compare signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ) values and ACL graft T2* (gradient echo) values between patients who did RTS and those who did not RTS (NRTS) after ACL reconstruction and to evaluate the predictive value of T2* mapping for RTS after ACL reconstruction. Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. At a minimum of 9 months after arthroscopic single-bundle ACL reconstruction with autologous hamstring tendon graft, 82 patients underwent RTS assessment as well as MRI evaluation. The patients were classified into RTS (n = 53) and NRTS (n = 29) groups based on the results of the assessment. The SNQ values in the proximal, middle, and distal regions of the graft and the T2* values of the graft were measured on MRI. The correlation between T2* values and RTS was assessed using Spearman correlation analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to compare the diagnostic performance, and the optimal T2* cutoff value for detecting RTS was determined based on the maximum Youden index. At 9 months after ACL reconstruction, the proximal, middle, and mean SNQ values in the RTS group were significantly lower than those in the NRTS group (proximal: 17.15 ± 4.85 vs 19.55 ± 5.05, P = .038; middle: 13.45 ± 5.15 vs. 17.75 ± 5.75, P = .001; mean: 12.37 ± 2.74 vs 15.07 ± 3.32, P < .001). The T2* values were lower in the RTS group (14.92 ± 2.28 vs 17.69 ± 2.48; P < .001) and were correlated with RTS (r = -0.41; P = .02). The area under the curve of T2* was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.75-0.83), and the optimal cutoff value for T2* was 16.65, with a sensitivity and specificity for predicting failure to RTS of 67.9% and 88.2%, respectively. Study findings indicated that the SNQs (mean, proximal, and middle) and the T2* values of the graft in the RTS group were significantly lower than those in NRTS group. A T2* value of 16.65 was calculated to predict patients who failed RTS tests with a sensitivity of 67.9% and specificity of 88.2%.

Good physical function but reduced quality of life in children 3 years after ACL reconstruction.

To assess children's physical function and subjective knee status 1 and 3 years after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. It was hypothesised that there was no difference between the operated and normal legs in relation to physical strength and function, that there was <-2 mm side-to-side difference in knee laxity, and that the subjective knee function was better 3 years after ACL reconstruction compared to 1 year after. Children (<16 years of age) who had an ACL reconstruction had follow-up with physical function tests (four hop tests and strength measurement in a power rig [PR]), anterior knee laxity (measured using a Rolimeter) and patient-reported outcome measures (Pedi-International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS]-Child) 1 and 3 years postoperatively. Changes from 1- to 3-year follow-up were evaluated with a paired t test. Out of 148 ACL reconstructed children, 60 had all measures. The four hop tests and the PR all yielded a Limb Symmetry Index >90% at both follow-ups. There was a significant improvement from 1- to 3-year follow-up in two-hop tests (6 m on time and crossover hop). Side-to-side knee laxity was >2 mm in four children at 1- and 3-year tests. Pedi-IKDC scores increased, and KOOS-Child improved significantly from 1 to 3 years in two of the five domains: 'Sport' and 'Quality of life', but scores were lower than in a cohort of normal children. The children had good objective physical function 1 and 3 years after ACL reconstruction. However, scores from the KOOS-Child sport-specific function and quality of life domains were lower than in normal children. Level II.

A Single-Leg Vertical Hop Test Is an Effective Tool to Measure Functional Performance after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction

This study evaluated the single-leg vertical hop test (SLVHT), using digital sensor technology, for the functional assessment of rehabilitation progress in patients after ACL reconstruction (ACL-R). Between January 2019 and June 2022, 143 patients (26.6 (8.9) years, m/f 66/34%) completed return-to-sport testing at 3 and 6 months after ACL-R. The jump height during SLVHT was quantified with a digital motion sensor, containing a three-axis acceleration gyroscope sensor, and the limb symmetry index (LSI) (injured/non-injured leg ratio) was calculated. Three months postoperatively, the jump height of the injured leg was 59.6% (13.5 (5.5) cm) that of the non-injured leg (22.9 (6.2) cm; p &lt; 0.01). After 6 months, the jump height of the injured leg (18.4 (6.9) cm) improved by 44.1% compared to that at the 3-month follow-up but was still lower than the non-injured leg jump height (23.2 (7.0) cm, p &lt; 0.001; LSI = 79.6%). Men jumped higher than women, but their LSI was not different at 3 (59.6 vs. 59.5%) and 6 months (80.6 vs. 77.8%). Regression analysis identified the non-injured leg jump height as the primary independent predictor of the jump height of the injured leg (β = 0.776, T = 51.506, p &lt; 0.001). SLVHT, using digital sensor technology, is a simple and cost-effective functional test to assess rehabilitation progress after ACL-R, with the potential for multi-centre data analysis.

[Subtuberosity anterior closing wedge osteotomy to correct the increased posterior slope of the tibial plateau].

Reduction of increased reclination of the tibial plateau (posterior slope) to improve the anterior stability of the knee joint. Increased posterior reclination of the tibial plateau greater than 12° in combination with recurrent instability after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Hyperextension of more than 15° (relative). Anterior skin incision approximately 8-10 cm above the tibial tuberosity. Insertion of two converging guidewires directly below the patellar tendon ending obliquely in the area of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) insertion. Control of the wire position with the image intensifier core. Oscillating saw osteotomy. Removal of the wedge and closure of the osteotomy. Osteosynthesis with interfragmentary screw and medial angle-stable plate. Partial load with 10-20 kg for 2 weeks, then step by step increase in load. Mobility: free. To date we have operated on 36patients with recurrent instability after ACL reconstruction (20men, 16women, average age 34.4 years) in the manner described in this article. In 25cases, enlarged bone tunnels were filled with allogeneic bone at the same time. The posterior slope of the tibial plateau could be reduced from an average of 14.5° to8.8°. In 28cases another ACL reconstruction was performed after an interval of 4-12months. The Lysholm score significantly increased from 76.3 points to 89.2 points.

Psychological aspects associated with ACL rehabilitation and recurrence in football players: a systematic review

Although most football players recover good physical function after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, some do not return to their sport or to the same pre-injury level, and there is a risk of recurrence. Therefore, this study aimed to examine research on psychological aspects of ACL rehabilitation and Return to Play (RTP), as well as their influence on possible recurrence in football and futsal players. The search was conducted using the Scopus, PubMed, WoS, CENTRAL databases, and grey literature sources DART-Europe and OpenGrey. A total of nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The results indicated as the most evaluated psychological factor the psychological readiness to RTP through the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI). Likewise, psychological interventions in ACL-injured football players have positive effects on mood states, reduces pain perception, and fear reinjury, among others. Risk profiles for recurrence included vulnerability to stress and high psychological readiness to RTP. Therefore, psychological interventions should be incorporated into the rehabilitation process and screening to identify players at risk for poor outcomes or recurrences. Additional research would help to understand the influence of other variables or optimal levels of psychological readiness to RTP. Keywords: anterior cruciate ligament; RTP; sports injury; psychology; rehabilitation.

Subjective Causes for Failure to Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

While current literature has explored the outcomes of athletes who return to sport (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, less is known about the outcomes of those who are unsuccessful in returning to sport. To determine the rate of athletes who did not RTS after primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and to identify the specific subjective reasons for failure to RTS. A comprehensive search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted through April 2021. Eligible studies included those explicitly reporting the rate of failure for RTS after ACLR as well as providing details on reasons for athletes' inability to return; 31 studies met the inclusion criteria. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Level 2 to 4. The reasons for failure to RTS referred to in our study are derived from those established previously in the studies included. Data were collected on the number of athletes, mean age, mean follow-up time, type of sport played, failure to RTS rate, and specific reasons for failure to return. The weighted rate of failure to RTS after ACLR was 25.5% (95% CI, 19.88-31.66). The estimated proportion of psychosocial-related reasons cited for failure to RTS was significantly greater than knee-related reasons for failure RTS (55.4% vs 44.6%, P < 0.01). The most cited reason for failure to RTS was fear of reinjury (33.0%). This study estimates the rate of failure to RTS after ACLR to be 25.5%, with the majority of athletes citing fear of reinjury as the major deterrent for returning to sports. We highlight how factors independent of surgical outcomes may impact an athlete's ability to return to play given that the predominant reason for no RTS after ACLR was unrelated to the knee.

Late-stage rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A multicentre randomised controlled trial (PReP)

BackgroundAt the completion of formal rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, functional capacity is only restored in a small proportion of affected individuals. Therefore, the end of formal rehabilitation is not the end of functional rehabilitation. ObjectiveTo compare adherence to and effectiveness of a late-stage rehabilitation programme with usual care after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. MethodsThis prospective, double-blind, multicentre, parallel group, randomised controlled trial, included people aged 18 to 35 years after formal rehabilitation completion (mean [SD] 241 [92] days post-reconstruction). Participants were block-randomised to a 5-month neuromuscular performance intervention (Stop-X group) or usual care (medically prescribed standard physiotherapy, individual formal rehabilitation, home-exercises). All outcomes were measured once/month. Primary outcome was the normalised knee separation distance on landing after drop jump. Baseline-adjusted linear mixed models were calculated. ResultsIn total, 112 participants (Stop-X: 57; Usual care: 55,) were analysed. Initially, mean (SD) intervention frequency (units/week) was higher in the Stop-X than the Usual care group: 2.65 (0.96) versus 2.48 (1.14) units/week in the first and 2.28 (1.02) versus 2.14 (1.31) units/week in the second month. No between-group*time(*baseline)-differences were found for the primary outcome. Between-group*time-effects favoured the Stop-X-group at 2 months (fewer self-reported knee problems during sport, KOOS-SPORT) (estimate = 64.3, 95 % CI 24.4–104.3 for the Stop-X), more confidence to return to sport (ACL-RSI) (62.4, 10.7–114.2), fewer pain-associated knee problems (KOOS-PAIN) (82.8, 36.0–129.6), improved everyday activity abilities (KOOS-ADL) (71.1, 6.4–135.7), and improved limb symmetry index in the front hop for distance at 3 and 4 months (0.34, 0.10–0.57; 0.31, 0.08–0.54). No between-group*time-effects occurred for kinesiophobia, symptom-associated knee problems or balance hops performance. At the end of the intervention, 79 % of the Stop-X and 70 % of the Usual care participants (p < 0.05) had successfully returned to their pre-injury sport type and level. ConclusionsThe Stop-X intervention was slightly superior to usual care as part of late-stage rehabilitation after ACL-reconstruction. The small benefit might justify its use after formal rehabilitation completion.

Effects of Weight Bearing on Marrow Adipose Tissue and Trabecular Bone after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in the Rat Proximal Tibial Epiphysis.

The effects of mechanical unloading after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction on bone and marrow adipose tissue (MAT) are unclear. We investigated weight bearing effects on bone and MAT after ACL reconstruction. Rats underwent unilateral knee ACL transection and reconstruction, followed by hindlimb unloading (non-weight bearing), no intervention (low-weight bearing, the hindlimb standing time ratio (STR; operated/contralateral) during treadmill locomotion ranging from 0.55 to 0.91), or sustained morphine administration (moderate-weight bearing, STR ranging from 0.80 to 0.95). Untreated rats were used as controls. At 7 or 14 days after surgery, changes in trabecular bone and MAT in the proximal tibial were assessed histologically. Histological assessments at 7 or 14 days after surgery showed that ACL reconstruction without post-operative intervention did not significantly change trabecular bone and MAT areas. Hindlimb unloading after ACL reconstruction induced MAT accumulation with adipocyte hyperplasia and hypertrophy within 14 days, but did not significantly affect trabecular bone area. Increased weight bearing through morphine administration did not affect trabecular bone and MAT parameters. Our results suggest that early weight bearing after ACL reconstruction is important in reducing MAT accumulation, and that reduction in weight bearing alone is not sufficient to induce bone loss early after ACL reconstruction.

The Effects of Corticosteroid Administration and Treadmill Exercise on Marrow Adipose Tissue and Trabecular Bone after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Rats.

We aimed to investigate the effects of short-term corticosteroid administration after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction on marrow adipose tissue (MAT) and trabecular bone mass, as well as to examine whether treadmill exercise can mitigate MAT increase and trabecular bone deterioration caused by corticosteroid. ACL-reconstructed rats were divided into groups: no intervention, daily treadmill exercise (60 min/day), administration of the steroidal drug dexamethasone (250 μg/kg on days 0-5, 7, and 9 post-operatively), or dexamethasone administration combined with treadmill exercise. Untreated rats were served as controls. At day 10 or 30 post-operatively, histological assessments were performed in the proximal tibial epiphysis. MAT accumulation and trabecular bone loss were observed after ACL reconstruction. Dexamethasone promoted MAT accumulation at day 10 post-operatively but did not affect the trabecular bone loss. The MAT accumulation caused by dexamethasone reversed within 21 days after discontinuation. Treadmill exercise did not influence the changes in the MAT and trabecular bone areas. Short-term corticosteroid administration after ACL reconstruction promoted MAT accumulation while not affecting trabecular bone area. The MAT accumulation resulting from corticosteroid administration was reversible after discontinuation. Treadmill exercise could not mitigate the accumulation of MAT caused by corticosteroid administration and did not affect trabecular bone area.

Effect of knee bracing on clinical outcomes following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A prospective randomised controlled study

While there is a consensus against bracing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, the question of its potential benefits, especially in cases involving meniscus repair, as well as its routine use by the majority of clinicians, remains a topic of debate. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of bracing in relation to clinical scores after ACL reconstruction, regardless of meniscus surgery. This randomised controlled study involved patients aged 15-55 years who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery. All eligible patients were assigned into two groups: one group received an adjustable frame with a four-point fixation knee brace for a four-week period, while the other did not.A single experienced surgeon performed standard anatomical single-bundle ACL reconstruction. All patients, irrespective of whether they underwent meniscus repair, followed the same rehabilitation protocol. Knee functional questionnaires, including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, Tegner Activity Scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and examinations, were collected preoperatively, at six months, one year, and two years postoperatively. The study employed an intention-to-treat analysis and multilevel mixed-effects generalised linear models to compare continuous outcomes between the groups, adjusting for the times of follow-up. A total of 84 patients (42 patients per group) comprised of 75 males (89 %) and average age of 30±9.4 years old. Patient-reported function, physical examination findings, and surgical characteristics were comparable between the two groups. (P-value >0.05) Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in IKDC and Lysholm scores at the end of the two-year follow-up period. (P-value <0.0001) In multivariate analysis, bracing was significantly associated with lower Tegner activity scale than the non-brace group after adjustment for VAS and time (coefficient -0.49, 95 % confidence interval -0.87, -0.10, P-value=0.013). None of the graft ruptures were reported, and there was no significant difference of return to sports between the groups at the end of the follow-up. The study suggests that knee bracing after ACL reconstruction, regardless of any additional meniscus procedures, fails to enhance subjective or objective outcomes and could potentially have a negative impact on the Tegner activity scale, although the difference is not clinically significant. The routine use of a postoperative brace should be discontinued. Level I, Randomised controlled trial with no negative criteria.

Lysholm and KOOS QoL Demonstrate High Responsiveness in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

There have been a large number of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used to assess outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose was to determine which PROMs are being commonly used in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to assess patients undergoing ACLR and to compare the responsiveness between them. It was hypothesized that the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score would be the most commonly used and responsive PROM among patients undergoing ACLR. Meta-analysis. Level of evidence, 2. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed, and relevant studies were extracted from the PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. The inclusion criteria were English-language RCTs reporting on PROMs after ACLR. For articles meeting our inclusion criteria for responsiveness analysis (≥2 PROMs reported, 1 year minimum follow-up, and reported pre- and postoperative PROM means and standard deviations), the responsiveness between PROMs was compared using effect size (ES) and relative efficiency (RE). A total of 108 articles met the inclusion criteria, comprising 9034 patients (mean age, 29.9 years; mean body mass index, 24.3; mean follow-up time, 36.1 months). There were 34 PROMs identified. The top 3 most commonly reported PROMs were the IKDC (n = 68; 63.0%), Lysholm (n = 65; 60.2%), and Tegner (n = 47; 43.5%) scores. The 2 PROMs with the highest ES were the ACL-Quality of Life (QoL) (3.37) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) QoL (2.07) scores. Compared with other PROMs, Lysholm and KOOS QoL scores had the greatest RE values. The Lysholm score had a greater RE than the KOOS Pain (RE, 1.17), KOOS Symptoms (RE, 1.22), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (RE, 1.42), KOOS Sport/Recreation (RE, 1.55), KOOS QoL (RE, 1.41), and Tegner (RE, 2.89) scores. KOOS QoL had a greater RE than the IKDC (RE, 1.32), KOOS Pain (RE, 1.60), KOOS Symptoms (RE, 2.12), KOOS ADL (RE, 3.03), KOOS Sport/Recreation (RE, 1.27), and Tegner (RE, 2.06) scores. The IKDC score is the most commonly reported PROM in RCTs after ACLR; however, the Lysholm and KOOS QoL scores demonstrated the highest responsiveness in patients undergoing ACLR compared with other PROMs.

Comparison of knee flexor strength recovery between semitendinosus alone versus semitendinosus with gracilis autograft for ACL reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundWhether there is a difference in harvesting the semitendinosus tendon alone (S) or in combination with the gracilis tendon (SG) for the recovery of knee flexor strength after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains inconclusive. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the recovery of knee flexor strength based on the autograft composition, S or SG autograft at 6, 12, and ≥ 24 months after ACL reconstruction.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed encompassing the Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, PEDRo and AMED databases from inception to January 2023. Inclusion criteria were human clinical trials published in English, comprised of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), longitudinal cohort-, cross-sectional and case–control studies that compared knee flexor strength recovery between S and SG autografts in patients undergoing primary ACL reconstruction. Isokinetic peak torques were summarized for angular velocities of 60°/s, 180°/s, and across all angular velocities, assessed at 6, 12, and ≥ 24 months after ACL reconstruction. A random-effects model was used with standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. Risk of bias was assessed with the RoBANS for non-randomized studies and the Cochrane RoB 2 tool for RCTs. Certainty of evidence was appraised using the GRADE working group methodology.ResultsAmong the 1,227 patients from the 15 included studies, 604 patients received treatment with S autograft (49%), and 623 received SG autograft (51%). Patients treated with S autograft displayed lesser strength deficits at 6 months across all angular velocities d = -0.25, (95% CI -0.40; -0.10, p = 0.001). Beyond 6 months after ACL reconstruction, no significant difference was observed between autograft compositions.ConclusionThe harvest of S autograft for ACL reconstruction yields superior knee flexor strength recovery compared to SG autograft 6 months after ACL reconstruction, irrespective of angular velocity at isokinetic testing. However, the clinical significance of the observed difference in knee flexor strength between autograft compositions at 6 months is questionable, given the very low certainty of evidence and small effect size. There was no significant difference in knee flexor strength recovery between autograft compositions beyond 6 months after ACL reconstruction.Trial registrationCRD42022286773.

Impact of Lateral Extra-Articular Procedure Augmentation on Rerupture Risk and Tegner Activity Scale Outcomes in Adolescent Anterior Cruciate Ligament: A Matched Comparative Study With a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

Background: Despite the well-established role of lateral extra-articular procedures (LEAPs) in reducing failure rates after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) in the adult population, similar in-depth research for the adolescent and pediatric population remains lacking. Purpose: To examine the effect of the LEAP augmentation on the rerupture rate after ACLR in patients aged <18 years. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from October 2012 to June 2020, involving adolescents <18 years old undergoing primary ACLR with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Two groups, matched for age, sex, Tegner activity scale, and presence of meniscal injury, were established: ACLR alone and ACLR+LEAP augmentation. The primary outcome measure was the rate of rerupture after ACLR. The secondary outcome measures were the rate of non–graft rupture related reoperation after ACLR; rate of return to sport (RTS) rate, timing, and level compared with preinjury status; and functional scores including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) (Pain, Symptoms, Activities of Daily Living, Sport and Recreation, and Quality of Life), Tegner activity scale score, ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) score, and Lysholm score. Results: After accounting for follow-up losses, we analyzed 132 patients who underwent ACLR alone and 121 patients who underwent ACLR+LEAP from the initial 147 per group. The mean age of the patients in both groups was 16.1 years (SD, 1.1 and 1.0 years, respectively), with similar patient and injury characteristics across both groups (P > .05). Both groups also showed comparable preoperative functional scores. A significantly lower preoperative ACL-RSI score was observed in the ACLR-alone group compared with the ACLR+LEAP group (P = .0044). Graft rupture was significantly less common in the ACLR+LEAP group (2.5%) than in the ACLR-alone group (13.6%) (P = .002). The attributable risk reduction for ACLR+LEAP was 11.1%, and the calculated number needed to treat was 9. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significantly better rerupture-free survival at 5 years for the ACLR+LEAP group (P = .001). Cox regression confirmed a 6-fold increased rerupture risk in the ACLR-alone group (P = .004). At the final follow-up, despite similar IKDC, KOOS, Lysholm, and ACL-RSI values across both groups, the ACLR+LEAP group had a significantly higher Tegner score (7.2 vs 6.3; P = .0042). No significant differences were observed in RTS rates or sport level compared with preinjury states between the groups. Conclusion: ACLR+LEAP augmentation significantly reduced rerupture risk and facilitated higher postoperative activity levels in adolescents. Registration: NCT02511158 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Association of Concomitant MRI-Determined Anterolateral Complex Injury With Quantitative Measurements of Altered Rotational Tibiofemoral Position on MRI in Patients With ACL Injury.

Reduced graft failure rates have been reported after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction combined with anterolateral complex (ALC) augmentation. However, the preoperative diagnosis of concomitant ALC injury remains a clinical challenge. To identify the altered rotational tibiofemoral position on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in ACL-injured patients with concomitant ALC injury. Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Based on the evaluation of ALC abnormalities on MRI scans by experienced surgeons, 123 patients with nonchronic (<3 months) ACL injury confirmed by arthroscopy were included. The patients were divided into 2 groups-an ALC-injured group (n = 57) and an ALC-intact group (n = 66). The altered rotational tibiofemoral position was evaluated and compared by quantitatively measuring internal rotational tibial subluxation (IRTS) and axial internal tibial rotation (ITRa) on MRI. Multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with concomitant MRI-determined ALC injury. The ALC-injured group showed significantly increased IRTS (P < .001), ITRa (P < .001), lateral anterior tibial subluxation (ATS) (P < .001), and global ATS (GATS) (P = .002) compared with the ALC-intact group, while no significant difference in medial ATS (P = .810) was observed. A strong positive correlation was identified between IRTS and ITRa (rP = 0.809; P < .001). Multivariate analyses revealed that IRTS (P < .001) and GATS (P = .016) were associated factors for the presence of concomitant MRI-determined ALC injury. IRTS (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.734) was more strongly associated with the outcome than GATS (AUC = 0.658) in ROC analyses, suggesting a more significant internal rotational subluxation than anterior subluxation of the tibia. An IRTS threshold of 3.1 mm demonstrated a specificity of 84.2% for indicating the presence of concomitant MRI-determined ALC injury. The presence of concomitant MRI-determined ALC injury in ACL-injured patients was associated with a significant increase in IRTS and ITRa compared with those with intact ALC, indicating that these MRI measurements of the altered rotational tibiofemoral position could serve as potential quantifiable indicators for identifying concomitant ALC injury in clinical practice.

Return to Sport After Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review of the Criteria

Background: Postoperative rehabilitation is an important component of recovery after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), facilitating successful return to sport (RTS) by reducing risk factors for repeat injury. Purpose: This systematic review aimed to determine the best protocol for RTS after ACLR in children. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: PubMed, Embase, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases were searched from October 3, 2014, to November 3, 2022. The inclusion criteria were the pediatric population (<18 years old) after ACLR with clear RTS criteria and/or mean/median time to RTS. Multiligament knee injuries were excluded from this study. The methodologic quality of the included articles was assessed using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS). The highest possible score was 24 points for comparative studies (ie, a study comparing 2 protocols or more). Noncomparative studies or studies with a single protocol could score a maximum of 16 points as assessed by the MINORS score. Results: The search yielded 1816 titles, and 24 were retained based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Every study was published between 2015 and 2022. Among the 24 studies included, 13 were retrospective and 11 were prospective. The mean MINORS score for the noncomparative studies was 13 of 16 (n = 23) and 23 of 24 for the comparative study (n = 1). The studies were categorized into unspecified clearance (n = 10), milestone based (n = 13), and combined time and milestone (n = 1). A total of 1978 patients (57% female) were included in the review. The mean age at ACLR was 14.7 years. The most common endpoint used was graft rupture (0% to 35%). In the unspecified group, the quickest RTS was 5.8 months and the longest was 9.6 months. Statistically significant risk factors for ACL reinjury included younger age and earlier RTS. The latter was a significant contributor to graft failure for combined time-based and milestone-based RTS. In the milestone-based group, the most common criteria were ≥90% limb symmetry measured using hamstring strength, quadriceps strength, and/or hop tests. The mean RTS time was 6.8 to 13.5 months. Conclusion: RTS should be delayed, when possible, especially in the younger population. A combination of quantitative tests and qualitative tests is also recommended. However, optimal RTS criteria have yet to be determined. Future prospective studies should focus on comparing the different times and milestones currently available.

Distinct patterns of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in synovial fluid after ACL injury in comparison to osteoarthritis.

This study analyzed knee synovial fluid after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and in osteoarthritis (OA) to test the hypotheses that concentrations of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors differ (a) by diagnosis and (b) after ACL tear by time from injury and presence/absence of concomitant meniscus tear. Synovial fluid samples were collected from two groups, ACL tears (with or without meniscus tear) (N = 13) and Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 and 4 OA (N = 16), undergoing clinically indicated aspiration of the knee joint. Multiple cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were assessed using a multiplexed 45-protein panel. Comparisons were made for the concentrations of all molecules between ACL tear and OA patients, isolated versus combined ACL and meniscus tears, and categorized by time from injury: acute or early subacute (<15 days, N = 8) versus late subacute or chronic (>15 days and <3 months, N = 5). ACL tear patients have higher levels of six molecules (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, PlGF-1, bNGF, TNF-α) in knee synovial fluid compared to OA patients. Isolated ACL tears express higher levels of IL-4, IL-13 and IFN-γ and lower levels of IL-7 than ACL tears with a concomitant meniscus tear. SDF-1α, PlGF-1, IL-1RA, HGF, bNGF, and BDNF levels are elevated immediately after injury and drop off significantly in the late subacute phase (after 15 days). Synovial fluid from knees with ACL tears have elevated metabolic activity compared to knees with OA. The cytokine profiles after ACL tears are influenced by the time from injury and the presence of meniscus tears. These findings offer valuable insights into the levels of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in the knee after ACL injury, information which may have important implications for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of this common pathology.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Current Concepts and Future Perspectives

The remarkable progress in data aggregation and deep learning algorithms has positioned artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to revolutionize the field of medicine. AI is becoming more and more prevalent in the healthcare sector, and its impact on orthopedic surgery is already evident in several fields. This review aims to examine the literature that explores the comprehensive clinical relevance of AI-based tools utilized before, during, and after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The review focuses on current clinical applications and future prospects in preoperative management, encompassing risk prediction and diagnostics; intraoperative tools, specifically navigation, identifying complex anatomic landmarks during surgery; and postoperative applications in terms of postoperative care and rehabilitation. Additionally, AI tools in educational and training settings are presented. Orthopedic surgeons are showing a growing interest in AI, as evidenced by the applications discussed in this review, particularly those related to ACL injury. The exponential increase in studies on AI tools applicable to the management of ACL tears promises a significant future impact in its clinical application, with growing attention from orthopedic surgeons.

Correlation of muscle strength and reported knee function after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) graft, unrepaired ACL injury, and healthy knees

Correlation of muscle strength and reported knee function after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) graft, unrepaired ACL injury, and healthy knees

The nature of gait biomechanics changes with walking speed increase in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury.

This study on gait biomechanics is based on a functional test (FT) performed at free and fast walking speeds. We investigated the pattern of changes in gait biomechanical parameters and the knee function in patients after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury or its reconstruction. The study included 51 patients (33 males, 18 females) with a confirmed recent or old history of ACL tear, before or after reconstruction (26 patients). Mocap data was obtained using an inertial system. All patients were divided into three groups: 41 patients with physiological response (compensation), 6 patients with signs of decompensation, and 4 non-assessable patients. Increase in gait speed was associated with decrease in the walking cycle duration, stance and double support phases. In the compensation group, the physiological response of the knee was manifested in increased amplitudes. In the decompensation group, the amplitudes remained unchanged or decreased. In the compensation group, there were increases in the symmetrical muscle activity. The decompensation group was characterized by electromyography asymmetry. The observed universal physiological mechanism limiting the load on the damaged joint can be used for accurate assessment of the knee functional state in various periods of rehabilitation.

Effect of bone marrow aspiration concentrate and platelet-rich plasma combination in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized, prospective, double-blinded study

BackgroundThe effect of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combination in enhancing graft maturation and tendon–bone tunnel interfacial healing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains unclear. We hypothesised that BMAC and PRP combination could lead to better clinical results and better graft maturation/interface healing than PRP alone or conventional ACL reconstruction without any other biologic augmentation.MethodsIn this randomised double-blind prospective study, patients undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery were randomly assigned into three groups: (1) control group (without any biologic augmentation), (2) PRP treatment group, and (3) combined BMAC and PRP (BMAC + PRP) group. Moreover, they were evaluated using the clinical functional score, laxity examination, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis.ResultsNo significant difference was observed in the improvement of functional scores among groups. However, laxity improvement at 24 weeks showed a significant difference with the BMAC + PRP group having the lowest laxity. MRI analysis showed no significant change in whole graft maturation among groups. In particular, the BMAC + PRP group showed delayed signal peak and higher graft signal at 24 weeks compared with the other two groups; however, the difference was not significant. With regard to tendon–bone interfacial healing, the BMAC + PRP group showed significantly wider tendon–bone interface in the femoral bone tunnel at 24 weeks compared with the other two groups. Moreover, the BMAC + PRP group showed significantly higher peri-tunnel edema signal in the femoral bone tunnel at 12 weeks compared with the other two groups.ConclusionPRP alone and BMAC and PRP combination showed limited enhancing effect in clinical function, graft maturation and tendon–bone interfacial healing compared with control (no additional treatment). When BMAC is used in ACL reconstruction, the possibility of greater inflammation in the early stage to graft maturation and bone tunnel healing should be considered.