Reviving Movement and Stability: A Case Series on Different Innovative Rehabilitation Strategies Post-anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are frequent and can seriously impair stability and mobility. This study examines rehabilitation outcomes in four patients following ligament reconstruction. Four patients who underwent ACL reconstruction and received different physiotherapy protocols, namely, "Oxford Knee Services," "Mass General Brigham," "Fowler Kennedy Sports Medicine," and "Schlechter Protocol of Youth Sports and Ortho," were included. The study aimed to identify the most effective rehabilitation approach. Demographic data, injury details, clinical examinations, and preoperative investigations were presented. Outcome measures included pain scores, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and functional assessments. All the patients showed improvements, but the rate of progress varied. Patient 3 achieved the best results in the ROM, muscle strength, and functional measures. This suggests that individual factors and rehabilitation protocols might influence outcomes. This study highlights the varying impacts of different rehabilitation protocols on the recovery outcomes of the patients' post-ACL reconstruction. Despite all patients showing improvements in pain reduction, ROM, muscle strength, and functional capabilities, the rate of progress and the degree of improvement differed notably among them.

Outcomes of Surgical Treatment for Multiligament Knee Injuries in a Cohort Including Competitive Athletes With Long-Term Follow-Up.

Background: There is a paucity of outcomes data on surgical reconstruction for multiligament knee injury (MLKI) in the orthopaedic literature. Purpose: To examine functional and return-to-sports (RTS) outcomes and revision rates after single-stage reconstruction for MLKIs in a cohort containing a large proportion of competitive athletes over a 20-year period. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: We identified all patients at our institution who underwent surgical reconstruction for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or bicruciate (ACL-posterior cruciate ligament) MLKI between 2001 and 2020 and had ≥2 years of postoperative outcome data. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form, a surgical satisfaction survey, and questions about subsequent knee surgery and RTS administered via telephone. Summary statistics for all outcomes data were calculated, and predictors of IKDC scores at follow-up were examined using univariable linear regression. Results: Out of 151 patients eligible for this study, outcomes data were collected in 119 patients (79%). The mean follow-up time was 8.3 ± 4.4 years, and the mean IKDC score at follow-up was 79 ± 17. A total of 83 competitive athletes were included; 62 of these athletes attempted to return to preinjury sport. Among the 62 who attempted RTS, 50 (81%) were successful, and 12 were unable to return due to limitations from their surgery. At follow-up, 112 of the overall cohort of 119 patients (94%) were either satisfied or very satisfied with their surgical outcome, and 91% stated the surgery met or exceeded their expectations. In addition, 24% had subsequent ipsilateral knee operations after their index multiligament knee reconstruction. Older age at surgery and female sex were associated with worse IKDC scores at follow-up. Conclusion: Despite the severity of the injuries in our cohort, we found high levels of patient-reported function and a high rate of successful RTS in the competitive athletes. Older age and female sex were associated with worse patient-reported knee function at follow-up.

Variability in the Spectrum of Reporting on the Schenck KD I Classification in the Orthopaedic Literature: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: There has been a marked increase in the number of Schenck knee dislocation (KD) I injuries reported in the multiligament knee (MLK) injury (MLKI) and KD literature. Purpose: To examine the heterogeneity of the Schenck KD I classification in the MLKI and KD literature. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library was conducted for all studies that investigated KDs and/or MLKIs, utilized the Schenck or an MLKI classification system, and included patients with KD I or MLK 1 injuries. Pooled analysis determined the total number of KD I or MLK 1 injuries and the specific ligamentous tear patterns. Binary meta-analyses of the studies that reported neurovascular injury within each Schenck KD class compared the pooled odds ratio (OR) of vascular and neurological injury in unicruciate (KD I) and bicruciate (KD II-IV) injuries. Results: Included were 50 studies in which 3460 KD I injuries were reported out of 7872 KDs and MLKIs (43.9%). Of the 2912 patients reported to have had a Schenck KD I injury, 26 patients (0.9%) had a clinically and/or radiographically confirmed tibiofemoral KD. The overall prevalence of Schenck KD I injury with documented tibiofemoral KD was 26 of 7872 (0.3%). A total of 22 studies (n = 1702 patients) reported the specific ligamentous tear patterns; the most common patterns were posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)/lateral collateral ligament (LCL) (n = 526; 30.9%), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)/LCL (n = 488; 28.7%), ACL/medial collateral ligament (MCL) (n = 408; 24.0%), and PCL/MCL (n = 198; 11.6%). Meta-analyses demonstrated that when compared with bicruciate KD or MLKI, unicruciate KD or MLKI was significantly less likely to have concomitant vascular injury (OR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.15-0.51; P < .0001) and concomitant neurologic injury (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.37-0.65; P < .00001). Conclusion: The number of true, clinically and/or radiographically confirmed unicruciate KDs was extremely rare, representing <1% of all reported Schenck KD I injuries. A misappropriation of these injury patterns as true KDs may be taking place, affecting outcome studies and potentially biasing published clinical results. An MLKI classification system must document whether a confirmed KD has occurred.

Increased rate of injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament in amateur soccer players after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the discontinuation of soccer activities at all levels of play. Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are still one of the most severe injuries in soccer. The aim of this investigation was to analyze the changes in the incidence and mechanism of ACL injuries in professional and amateur soccer before and after the lockdown period. Injury data were prospectively collected using the database 'ACL registry in German soccer'. Between 2019 and 2021, 10 matches in professional, semi-professional, and amateur leagues before and after the lockdown were analyzed for the incidence and mechanism of ACL injuries. Data were collected using standardized and recently published study methods. Mean incidence of the 84 ACL injuries recorded during the study period was 0.083 injuries per 1000 h of exposure before and 0.079 injuries per 1000 h of exposure after the lockdown period (p = 0.699). In amateur soccer, the incidence of ACL injuries increased significantly from 0.058 injuries per 1000 h of exposure before to 0.128 injuries per 1000 h of exposure after the lockdown period (p = 0.026), in contrast to professional (p = 0.436) and semi-professional (p = 0.802) soccer. The predominant mechanisms of ACL injuries were non-contact injuries (pre-COVID: 59.1%; post-COVID: 57.7%) and indirect contact injuries (pre-COVID: 31.8%; post-COVID: 30.8%). The absence from training and match practice in German soccer during the COVID-19 lockdown led to a significantly increased ACL injury rate in amateur leagues, while in professional and semi-professional soccer no differences were reported. The mechanism of ACL injuries did not change after the lockdown period.Level of evidence: II.

Surgically treated acute knee dislocations with knee stiffness perform equally as well as non-stiff knees when treated with arthroscopic arthrolysis.

PURPOSE: Postoperative knee stiffness is a common issue in multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs). This study aims to compare outcomes between MLKI patients who underwent postoperative arthroscopic lysis of arthrofibrosis (LOA) for limited range of motion (ROM) and those who did not. METHODS: Thirty-one patients (10 IIIM, nine IIIL and 12 IV) were included in this retrospective clinical study with acute type III or IV knee dislocations, while two patients were lost to follow up. Thirteen patients underwent LOA at a mean of 18.7 ± 8.4 weeks (Group A), while 18 did not require this intervention (Group B). Patient-reported outcome measures (IKDC, Lysholm, VAS) and ROM were evaluated. RESULTS: The average follow up period was 31.0 ± 10.2 months. The mean time to LOA was 19.4 ± 7.6 weeks and a significant increase in ROM was observed after LOA (flexion: before LOA: 83.8° ± 19.2, after LOA: 119.6° ± 9.9; P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences between groups regarding clinical scores (Lysholm: Group A 85.0 ± 13.4, Group B 84.6 ± 14.5; IKDC: Group A 74.3 ± 10.8, Group B 76.7 ± 14.7) and ROM (flexion: Group A 118.6° ± 9.8, Group B 124.3° ± 12.8). There were no complications regarding LOA. CONCLUSIONS: Patients, whether undergoing LOA or not, performed equally well in terms of ROM and clinical scores at final follow up, while timing of LOA appears less critical. LOA is a simple, durable and safe method of treating ROM deficits in patients treated for acute knee dislocation, with very good results.

Mapping the Research Landscape of Intra-Articular Knee Injections: A Bibliometric Analysis Using the Scopus Database.

Intraarticular injection of osteoarthritis knee is one of the treatment options for pain management and delays the need for knee surgery. Various materials have been promoted for the procedure, ranging from corticosteroid to viscosupplement to the more recent autologous biological materials. Despite the increasing attention and interest in regard to the material selection, efficacy, safety, and effect of this intervention, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database has yet to be conducted. In this bibliometric analysis, we reviewed the Scopus database from 2003 to 2023 to investigate the literature on intraarticular injection for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. A total of 1,318 articles that satisfied the selection criteria were included in this review. The trend of intervention shows changes since 2006, with corticosteroid injection and hyaluronic acid as the main topics of publication before 2006. However, starting in 2010, there has been a noticeable shift towards biological agents, such as plasma-rich proteins, and autologous materials, including marrow aspiration and stromal vascular fraction. This shift reflects the increasing interest in regenerative medicine and the potential of these newer therapies to provide improved outcomes. The overwhelming majority of the articles were authored by researchers and clinicians from across European countries, the United States of America (USA), and Australia. Similarly, most of the articles with the highest number of citations were authored by researchers and clinicians from these regions. This comprehensive bibliometric analysis using Scopus in the domain of intraarticular injection has the potential to act as a roadmap for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, facilitating informed decision-making, promoting collaborative initiatives, and guiding the development of future studies to further advance the options of knee intraarticular injection, specifically in the management of knee osteoarthritis.

ACL Injury Etiology in Its Context: A Systems Thinking, Group Model Building Approach.

Background/Objectives: Given the complex nature of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury, it is important to analyze its etiology with suitable approaches in order to formulate intervention strategies for effective prevention. The present study employs system thinking techniques to develop a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) Model for investigating the risk factors for ACL Injury (CLD-ACLI), through a Group Model Building approach. Methods: A two-stage procedure was applied involving a comprehensive literature review followed by several systems thinking group-modeling co-creation workshops with stakeholders. Results: Based on input from experts and stakeholders, combined with the latest scientific findings, the derived CLD-ACLI model revealed a series of interesting complex nonlinear interrelationships causal loops between the likelihood of ACL injury and the number of risk factors. Particularly, the interaction among institutional, psychological, neurocognitive, neuromuscular, malalignment factors, and trauma history seem to affect neuromuscular control, which subsequently may alter the biomechanics of landing, predisposing the ACL to injury. Further, according to the proposed CLD-ACLI model, the risk for injury may increase further if specific environmental and anatomical factors affect the shear forces imposed on the ACL. Conclusions: The proposed CLD-ACLI model constitutes a rigorous useful conceptual presentation agreed upon among experts on the dynamic interactions among potential intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors for ACL injury. The presented causal loop model constitutes a vital step for developing a validated quantitative system dynamics simulation model for evaluating ACL injury-prevention strategies prior to implementation.

Assessment of arthrogenic quadriceps muscle inhibition by physical examination in the supine position during isometric contraction is feasible as demonstrated by electromyography: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Preventing severe arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) after knee injury is critical for better prognosis. The novel Sonnery-Cottet classification of AMI enables the evaluation of AMI severity but requires validation. This study aimed to investigate the electromyography (EMG) patterns of leg muscles in the examination position from the classification during isometric contraction to confirm its validity. We hypothesised that the AMI pattern, which is characterised by quadriceps inhibition and hamstring hypercontraction, would be detectable in the supine position during isometric contraction. METHODS: Patients with meniscal or knee ligament injuries were enrolled between August 2023 and May 2024. Surface EMG was assessed during submaximal voluntary isometric contractions (sMVIC) at 0° extension in the supine position for the vastus medialis (VM) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles and at 20° flexion in the prone position for the semitendinosus (ST) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles. Reference values for normalisation were obtained from the EMG activity during the gait of the uninjured leg. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the activation patterns of the muscle groups within the same leg, and the post-hoc tests were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test and Bonferroni correction. RESULTS: Electromyographic data of 40 patients with knee injuries were analyzed. During sMVIC, the extensor and flexor muscles of the injured leg showed distinct behaviours (P < 0.001), whereas the uninjured side did not (P = 0.144). In the injured leg, the VM differed significantly from the ST (P = 0.018), and the VL differed significantly from the ST and BF (P = 0.001 and P = 0.026, respectively). However, there were no statistically significant differences within the extensor muscle groups (VM and VL, P = 0.487) or flexor muscle groups (ST and BF, P = 0.377). CONCLUSION: AMI was detectable in the examination position suggested by the Sonnery-Cottet classification. The flexor and extensor muscles of the injured leg exhibited distinct activation behaviours, with inhibition predominantly occurring in the quadriceps muscles, whereas the hamstrings showed excitation.

Rising rates of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in Australian adults: An analysis of Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule database.

PURPOSE: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is an evolving field, though there remains sparse epidemiological data on the treatment of ACL ruptures. The objective of this study is to analyse the trends in the rate of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in adult patients over the past two decades in the Australian population. METHODS: The incidence of ACLR between 2001 and 2020 in patients 15 years and over was analysed using the Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) database. The data reflect patients with private health coverage (45% of the Australian population). An offset term was introduced using national population data to account for population changes over the study period. RESULTS: A total of 160,353 ACLRs were performed in Australia under the MBS in the 20-year period from 2001 to 2020. An annual increase in the total volume and per capita rate of ACLRs was found (p < 0.05). The annual volume of cases increased by 82%, from 5512 in 2001 to a peak of 10,011 in 2017. This increase was seen across all age groups (p < 0.05) and both sexes (p < 0.05), with a greater proportion of reconstructions performed on males (n = 102,357, 64%) than females (n = 57,996, 36%). In 2020, the rate of adult ACLRs decreased to a level last seen in 2004, likely due to the effects of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of ACLR in adult patients has increased in Australia over the 20-year study period. The trends noted provide information that can be used to guide resource allocation and health provision in the future. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Outcomes after multiligament knee injury worsen over time: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs) are devastating injuries that can have life-long consequences. A management plan requires the decision to perform surgery or not, timing of surgery, consideration of repair versus reconstruction, reconstruction technique and reconstruction graft choice. The purpose of this study was to analyze development of clinical outcomes of MLKIs over time at a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. METHODS: Four databases were queried for surgical outcome-based studies of MLKIs published from 01/2000 through 09/2022 with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Technique articles, nonoperative treatment, arthroplasty, pediatric and review articles were excluded. Study characteristics including design, number of patients, age, follow-up period, anatomical region and posterior-cruciate ligament (PCL)-based injury were collected. Primary outcomes were Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) outcome scores and Tegner activity score. Random-effects model analysis was performed. RESULTS: After the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 3571 patients in 79 studies were included in the analysis. The mean age at surgery was 35.6 years. The mean follow-up was 4.06 years (range 2-12.7). The mean Lysholm score at 2-year follow-up was 86.09 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 82.90-89.28], with a yearly decrease of -0.80 [95% CI: -1.47 -0.13], (p = 0.0199). The mean IKDC at 2 years was 81.35 [95% CI: 76.56-86.14], with a yearly decrease of -1.99 [95% CI: -3.14 -0.84] (p < 0.001). Non-PCL-based injuries had a higher IKDC 83.69 [75.55-91.82] vs. 75.00 [70.75-79.26] (p = 0.03) and Lysholm score 90.84 [87.10-94.58] versus 84.35 [82.18-86.52] (p < 0.01) than PCL-based injuries, respectively. CONCLUSION: According to the present systematic review and meta-analysis of MLKIs with minimum 2-year follow-ups, the patients who suffered an MLKI can expect to retain around 80-85% of knee function at 2 years and can expect a yearly deterioration of knee function, depending on the score used. Inferior outcomes can be expected for PCL-based injuries at 2 years postoperative. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV meta-analysis.

Individual and combined effects of sport-related concussion and ACL injury on neurocognitive and neuromechanical reaction time.

CONTEXT: Recent epidemiological data indicates a potential connection between sport-related concussion (SRC) and elevated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk. Limited research exists quantifying cognitive and motor outcome measures between SRC and ACL injury history. OBJECTIVE: To examine the individual and combined effects of a history of SRC and ACL injury and reconstruction (ACLR) on neurocognitive and neuromechanical function. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Research laboratory. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS: 47 recreationally active college individuals with either an injury history of SRC (n=12), ACLR (n=12), combination of SRC+ACLR (n=11), or uninjured controls (n=12). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants completed a neurological battery using the C3 Logix application and TRAZER system for neuromechanical reaction time (RT). C3 Logix sub-tests consisted of the Trail Making Test (TMT) A,B, and B -/minus A, simple and choice RT, and processing speed. TRAZER sub-tests consisted of simple, Flanker-task, and Stroop-task RT. Participants were categorized into 3 group comparisons of either: (i) SRC, ACLR, SRC+ACLR, and controls, (ii) Any or No SRC overall, (iii) Any or No ACLR overall. RESULTS: No differences were demonstrated between SRC, ACLR, SRC+ACLR, and controls on TMT (p=.07-.14), neurocognitive (p=.14-.93) or neuromechanical (p=.64-.99) performance. Those with Any SRC had slower TMT B-A times (p=.03), while those with Any ACLR had slower Trail A (p=.02) times when compared to those with no ACLR. No differences were noted for TRAZER simple, Flanker, or Stroop RT for Any or No SRC and ACLR groups. CONCLUSIONS: College students with a combined effect of SRC and ACLR did not differ from other groups on neurocognition and neuromechanical reaction time. Individuals with a history of SRC or ACLR had worse TMT, leading to inquiry about potential long-term neurological deficits, despite no differences in those with a combined history.

Timing of Surgery & Rehabilitation After Multiligamentous Knee Reconstruction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To provide an overview of the current evidence of the timing of surgery and rehabilitation after multiligamentous knee injuries (MLKIs) and offer insights into the ongoing multi-center randomized controlled study, the 'STaR trial'. RECENT FINDINGS: Due to the complexity of the MKLIs, they are usually treated surgically with the goal of either repairing or reconstructing the injured ligaments. Although the current literature on MLKIs is relatively extensive, the consensus on the timing of surgery or rehabilitation following surgery for MLKIs is still lacking. While current literature mostly suggests early treatment, there is also evidence preferring delayed treatment. Furthermore, evidence on the timing of postoperative rehabilitation is limited. Thus, the current multi-center randomized controlled study, the 'STaR trial', is expected to respond to these questions by adding new high-level evidence. The MLKIs are often associated with knee dislocation and constitute a highly complex entity, including concomitant injuries, such as neurovascular, meniscal, and cartilaginous injuries. The treatment of MLKIs usually aims to either repair or reconstruct the injured ligaments, however, there is no general consensus on the timing of surgery or rehabilitation following an MLKI surgery. This current review stresses the need for more high-level research to address the paucity of evidence-based treatment guidelines for the treatment of complex MLKIs.

Concurrent Undisplaced Patellar Fracture and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture Managed With Surgical Fixation and Rehabilitation: A Case Report.

This case report explains the successful management of a rare, combined injury: an undisplaced patellar fracture and a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture at the tibial attachment in a 44-year-old male patient following a motorbike accident. While both injuries are frequently seen in orthopedic practice, their concurrent occurrence is uncommon. The patient presented with significant knee swelling, limited range of motion, and pain following the accident. An X-ray revealed a patellar fracture and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed an undisplaced fracture, a PCL tear, and a medial meniscus injury. The patient underwent surgical intervention for PCL fixation with a cannulated cancellous (CC) screw under spinal anesthesia. Following surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program was implemented, focusing on pain management, reducing swelling, regaining range of motion, and strengthening the surrounding musculature. The program progressed through three phases, steadily increasing the intensity and complexity of exercises. The patient exhibited significant improvement in pain, swelling, range of motion, and muscle strength throughout the rehabilitation program. By week 12, he had achieved near-normal knee function and was able to resume most daily activities.

Modern multiligament knee injury surgical reconstruction techniques can achieve excellent knee function and patient satisfaction, with low complication rates.

PURPOSE: To report on the recovery of strength and functional capacity symmetry following multiligament knee surgical reconstruction (MLKR), as well as the capacity of athletes to return to sport. METHODS: This prospective cohort study recruited 47 patients undergoing MLKR between February 2018 and July 2021. Forty patients had full outcome assessment postoperatively at 6, 12 and 24 months and were included in the analysis, 75% were knee dislocation one injuries and 60% were injured playing sport. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) assessed included the International Knee Documentation Committee score, the Knee Outcome Survey, the Lysholm Knee Score and the Tegner Activity Scale (TAS). Patient satisfaction was also assessed. Objective assessment included assessment of active knee flexion and extension range of motion (ROM), the single (single horizontal hop for distance [SHD]) and triple (triple horizontal hop for distance [THD]) hop tests for distance and peak isokinetic knee flexor/extensor torque. RESULTS: All PROMs significantly improved (p < 0.001) from presurgery to 24 months postsurgery. At 24 months, 70% of patients were satisfied with their sports participation. Active knee flexion (p < 0.0001) and extension (p < 0.0001) ROM significantly improved over time, as did the limb symmetry indices (LSIs) for the SHD (p < 0.0001), THD (p < 0.0001), peak knee extensor (p < 0.0001) and flexor (p = 0.012) torque. While LSIs for the SHD, THD and knee flexor strength tended to plateau by 12 months, knee extensor strength continued to improve from 12 to 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients undergoing modern MLKR surgical techniques and rehabilitation can achieve excellent knee function, with low complication rates. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Knee Dislocation as a Result of a Ski Injury.

Visible knee deformity as a result of a sporting activity is rare; however, it can be caused by a serious injury and have catastrophic consequences. Differential diagnosis includes patellofemoral or knee dislocations, fractures, and tendon or ligament ruptures. Immediate diagnosis and appropriate management are key. Diagnosis can be made using available tools such as plain radiography, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI. Depending on the type and severity of the diagnosis, urgent transportation to a higher level of care facility may be indicated. We present a gentleman in his 20s with knee dislocation as a result of a ski injury. His knee was reduced and he was transported to a hospital with surgical capability. He underwent surgery to stabilize his injury and then staged reconstruction for rupture of multiple ligaments.

Open Repair of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Bony Avulsion With Metal Anchor: A Case Report.

Introduction: The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the largest and strongest intra-articular ligament of the knee joint and the primary posterior stabilizer. PCL injuries are less frequent than other knee ligament injuries and are typically combined with meniscal and chondral injuries or in the context of multiligamentous injuries. It is critical to properly diagnose and treat these lesions in order to avoid the risk of PCL insufficiency, subsequent knee instability, and early osteoarthritis. Surgical management can vary, and the ideal fixation device is still debated. Suture anchors are an unusual mean of fixation of PCL tibial bony avulsion. We report on two patients treated with open anchor fixation for PCL tibial bony avulsion with a follow-up of 3 years. Case Presentation: A 15-year-old male and a 65-year-old male were treated with open anchor fixation for bony tibial avulsion of the PCL. Surgical treatment was performed at 5 weeks and 3 weeks after the trauma, respectively. Diagnosis was made with an X-ray followed by CT and MR scans. Repair was achieved by reinserting the PCL bony fragment to its posterior tibial eminence with suture anchors through an open posterior approach. Both patients recovered full knee stability and a pain-free full range of motion (ROM) within 4 months and returned to their previous activities with a high satisfaction. The patient has been followed up for 3 years, and no complications were observed. Conclusion: PCL bony avulsions are rare, and their optimal treatment remains a significant subject of debate, particularly in the skeletally immature patient. We believe that open repair with metal anchors could be a good choice to repair PCL bony tibial avulsion in patients without concomitant intra-articular lesions and immature growth plates or severe fragmentation.

Does Combined Reconstruction of the Medial Collateral and Anterior Cruciate Ligaments Provide Better Knee Function? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Objective: This study aimed to determine if medial collateral ligament reconstruction (MCLR) alongside anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) preserves knee functionality better than isolated ACLR in combined ACL and MCL tears. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched systematically on 31 March 2023. Studies reporting post-operative function after ACLR and ACLR + MCLR in combined injuries were included. Outcomes included International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, side-to-side difference (SSD), Lysholm, and Tegner scale values. Results: Out of 2362 papers, 8 studies met the criteria. The analysis found no significant difference in outcomes (MD = 3.63, 95% CI: [-5.05, 12.3] for IKDC; MD = -0.64, 95% CI: [-3.24, 1.96] for SSD at 0° extension; MD = -1.79, 95% CI: [-4.61, 1.04] for SSD at 30° extension; MD = -1.48, 95% CI: [-16.35, 13.39] for Lysholm scale; MD = -0.21, 95% CI: [-4.29, 3.87] for Tegner scale) between treatments. Conclusions: This meta-analysis found no significant difference in outcomes between ACLR and ACLR + MCLR, suggesting that adding MCLR does not provide additional benefits. Due to the heterogeneity and quality of the included studies, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the optimal treatment for combined severe MCL-ACL injuries.

A study regarding the anterior cruciate ligament remnant: Differences in balance and postural control between remnant-preserving and remnant-non-preserving patients

Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most frequently injured ligament of the knee. However, quantitative studies on evaluate the postural control influence resulted from the ACL remnant preservation or not are scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate the postural control of patients submitted to ACL reconstruction with and without preservation of the injured remnant in pre and postoperative periods.MethodsEighteen patients underwent ACL reconstruction and separated into 2 groups according to the preservation or not of the remnant: (I) submitted to ACL reconstruction with preservation of the remnant (10 patients); (II) submitted to ACL reconstruction without preservation of the remnant (8 patients). They were assessed using the Lysholm score and force plate, which evaluated the patient's postural stability for remnant and non-remnant preservation in ACL reconstruction surgery.ResultsGroup I showed statistically significant subjective and objective improvements, both at 3 and 6 months. Additionally, improvement of the Lysholm test at 6 months in Group II was also statistically significant. Furthermore, the results of the Friedman test for the VCOP and VY variables of Group I, with support of the injured side in the force plate, showed a statistically significant difference both for pre and postoperative period at 3 months, compared to the 6-month postoperative period. The variables EAC and VX were statistically different for Group II, considering the preoperative period, 3 and 6 months postoperatively.ConclusionPreserving the ACL remnant in patients with ACL injuries has a positive impact on postural stability during recovery.(AU)

Introducción: El ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) es el ligamento de la rodilla que se lesiona con mayor frecuencia. Sin embargo, escasean los estudios cuantitativos sobre la evaluación de la influencia del control postural derivada de la preservación, o no, del remanente del LCA. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el control postural de los pacientes sometidos a la reconstrucción del LCA, con y sin preservación del remanente lesionado, en los periodos previo y posterior a la cirugía.MétodosDieciocho pacientes sometidos a reconstrucción del LCA separados en 2 grupos, de acuerdo con la preservación o no preservación del remanente: I) sometidos a reconstrucción del LCA con preservación del remanente (10 pacientes), y II) sometidos a reconstrucción del LCA sin preservación del remanente (8 pacientes). Los pacientes fueron evaluados utilizando la puntuación de Lysholm y una placa de aplicación de fuerza, que evaluó la estabilidad postural del paciente para la preservación y no preservación del remanente en la cirugía de reconstrucción del LCA.ResultadosEl grupo I mostró mejoras subjetivas y objetivas estadísticamente significativas, transcurridos 3 y 6 meses. Además, la mejora de la prueba de Lysholm transcurridos 6 meses en el grupo II fue también estadísticamente significativa. Asimismo, los resultados de la prueba de Friedman para las variables VCOP y VY en el grupo I, con apoyo del lado lesionado en la placa de aplicación de fuerza, reflejaron una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en ambos períodos pre y postoperatorio transcurridos 3 meses, en comparación con el período postoperatorio transcurridos 6 meses. Las variables EAC y VX fueron estadísticamente diferentes para el grupo II, considerando el periodo preoperatorio, y los 3 y 6 meses postoperatorios.ConclusiónPreservar el remanente del LCA en los pacientes con lesiones en dicho ligamento tiene un impacto positivo en la estabilidad postural durante la recuperación.(AU)

Identifying unstable ramp lesions using ultrasonography.

BACKGROUND: Patients with suspected ramp lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasonography (US) healed and showed no instability based on intraoperative arthroscopic findings. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of US in evaluating ramp lesions preoperatively and intraoperatively. METHODS: Eighty-two knees that underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction between January 2022 and June 2023 were included to assess the ramp lesion complication rate and instability using arthroscopic findings. The detection rate of ramp lesions using US at the initial visit and preoperatively was also investigated. The test-retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient and analyzed using two-way random effects and absolute agreement. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of ramp lesions, and these data were compared using Student's t-test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: On ultrasound examination, 90.0% of the cases had a ramp lesion at the initial examination, of which 22.2% were poorly delineated on the day of surgery. In the cases where the ramp lesion was unstable at the time of surgery, it could be delineated using US. In the cases where the ramp lesion was stable, it was difficult to delineate the lesion using US. CONCLUSIONS: Unstable ramp lesions complicating ACL injuries could be detected using US.

Long-term Outcomes of Multiligament Knee Injuries in American Football Players.

BACKGROUND: Long-term outcomes for isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions in competitive American football athletes are well reported in the literature, but little data currently exist regarding multiligament knee injury (MLKI) reconstruction outcomes. PURPOSE: To examine patient-reported and return-to-sport outcomes of competitive American football athletes who underwent primary, single-staged, multiligament knee reconstruction. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: We identified patients from our institution's prospectively collected data repository between 2001 and 2020 who underwent single-staged surgical reconstruction of an MLKI sustained during competitive participation in American football. We assessed patient-reported outcomes at a minimum of 2 years after surgery using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form and questions regarding surgical satisfaction and return to sport. Successful return to sport was defined as a return to preinjury level of competition. We summarized all outcome data and compared outcomes between 2-ligament and >2-ligament groups and between ACL-only MLKI injury and bicruciate MLKI injury groups using independent t test for IKDC scores and chi-square test for return to sport. Additionally, we evaluated predictors of postoperative IKDC scores using linear regression and predictors of return to sport using logistic regression. RESULTS: Outcome data were successfully collected for 53 of 73 total eligible patients (73%; mean follow-up time, 7.7 ± 4.0 years; all male; mean age at surgery, 18.1 ± 2.7 years). The mean postoperative IKDC score was 84 ± 16. The most common level of preinjury competition was high school (n = 36; 68%), followed by college (n = 10; 19%). Seven patients did not return to sport competition at any level due to limitations from their knee surgery, and 82% of patients that attempted to return to preinjury level of sport were able to do so. A total of 50 patients (94%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their surgical outcome. The 2-ligament (n = 39) and >2-ligament (n = 14) groups did not significantly differ in IKDC scores (P = .96) or proportions with successful return to sport (P = .77). Similarly, the ACL-MLKI injury (n = 39) and bicruciate MLKI injury (n = 14) groups did not significantly differ in IKDC scores (P = .89) or proportions with successful return to sport (P = .77). Age and body mass index were not significantly associated with IKDC scores or successful return to sport at follow-up (all P > .05). CONCLUSION: This study may represent the largest cohort of competitive American football athletes evaluated for longitudinal outcomes after multiligament knee reconstruction. Despite the severity of these injuries, we found good knee-related function and that the large majority of athletes who attempted to return to sport were successful. The majority of athletes (94%) were satisfied with their operative treatment.