The assessment of function following intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (12-48 months post-operatively).
Date
1998
Authors
Fleishman, Caren.
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Abstract
The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the Subjective, objective and
functional results of intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions using
the patellar tendon. The subjects of one orthopaedic surgeon were assessed to eliminate
surgical variability. Twenty active males, aged 20 - 35 were assessed twelve to fortyeight
months post-operatively. Each subject completed a questionnaire and underwent
various functional and subjective tests.
Eighteen subjects (90 %) were satisfied with the outcome of their operation. Fourteen
(70%) complained of intermittent pain or cdscomfort. Six (30%) complained of some
form of post-operative giving way. Nineteen (95 %) had returned to sporting activity but
most modified their sport or level of participation.
Knee stability was restored post-operatively. Nineteen (95%) had a side-to-side
difference of three rnillimetres (mm) or less on Lachman testing and eighteen (90 %) a
side-to-side difference of 3mm or less on anterior drawer testing. Thirteen (65 %) had
a 3mm or less side-to-side difference on KT1000 testing at 20 pounds (lbs) and 14 (70%)
a side-to-side difference of 3mm or less on manual maximum testing.
Isokinetic muscle testing revealed persistent quadriceps deficits greater than 20 % in
seven subjects (35%) and three (15%) had similar hamstring deficits.
Various factors may affect post-operative function. These include the length of
rehabilitation, pain, residual quadriceps weakness and restoration of stability.
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences,
University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the
degree of Master of Science in Physiotherapy.
Keywords
Ligaments, Articular., Knee surgery.