The assessment of function following intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (12-48 months post-operatively)
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2014-03-14
Authors
Fleishman, Caren
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
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 discomfort. 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 millimetres (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.