The assessment of function following intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (12-48 months post-operatively)

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.