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BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is one of the injuries that seriously affect life and sports performance, and the anterior cruciate ligament as a stabilizing structure is irreplaceable in maintaining sports performance. In view of its severe injury manifestations, the current treatment for anterior cruciate ligament rupture is a surgery for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Since an anterior cruciate ligament injury can cause loss of mechanoreceptors, which in turn causes a reduction in proprioception, it is a great problem for patients to recover their motor performance. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the effects of proprioceptive training on clinical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and to explore the underlying mechanisms, thereby providing more references for clinical prevention and treatment. METHODS: A computerized search of PubMed, CNKI, WanFang Data, and VIP databases was conducted for literature (from January 2013 to March 2023) related to proprioceptive training after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction that improves joint stability and motor balance ability. A total of 108 articles were finally included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Proprioceptive training can effectively improve the proprioceptive functions of patients, such as positional sense and kinesthetic sense after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and improve joint stability, postural control and motor ability. The proprioceptive training improves the proprioceptive function through three mechanisms: stimulation of periprosthetic receptors around the knee joint, activation of spinal reflex stimulation, reinforcement of motor control in the brain, and enhancement of cognitive processing. The proprioceptive training may improve proprioceptive functions by activating the potential mechanisms of growth associated protein-43 activity, Piezo2 mechanotransducer, and NT-3/TrkC signaling pathway. Hydrotherapy is the mainstay in the early stages, while neuromuscular training, individual strength training and visual feedback training are prioritized in the middle and late stages. There exists an as-yet-unsegmented reconstructive surgery graft, sex, and a lack of devices or proprioceptive training methods based on the idea of combining multiple sensory stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rehabilitation is a common intervention after ACL reconstruction. Since different types of exercise can influence muscle and kinematic parameters in diverse ways, the training order between the knee and ankle joints may also change gait parameters. This study aimed to investigate whether the training sequence of the knee and ankle joints (knee followed by ankle training or vice-versa) in an ACL reconstruction (ACLR) rehabilitation program has any effects on knee extension and flexion torques. Forty-two men (aged 20–30 years) with ACLR participated in this study. They were randomly allocated to receive one of two interventions: (A) knee joint training followed by ankle training or (B) ankle joint training followed by knee training. After five weeks (four weeks of intervention and one-week washout), participants crossed from one group to another for an additional four weeks. Knee extension and flexion torques were assessed during the stance phase of the gait cycle before and after the intervention program. Two-way Mixed-design MANOVA showed that knee extension torque improved significantly in both groups after training (p = 0.001, Cohen's D = 0.65), while the knee flexion torque increased significantly only in group B (p= 0.001, Cohen's D = 0.97). When comparing both groups, patients of group B presented significant improvements in the post-training mean values of all tested variables compared with group A. Starting a post-ACLR rehabilitation program with ankle training followed by knee training is better to improve knee flexion and extension torques during the stance phase of the gait cycle than starting the program by training the knee first, followed by the ankle. Future studies using a mixed-gender sample and different types of ACLR operations are necessary to examine whether similar improvements will happen as well as to test their effects on many sports activities. • Knee torques improves after ankle joint training in ACL. • Exercising ankle joint first then knee joint is better in ACLR. • Ankle joint training improves gait after ACLR. • Athletes get better recovery after ankle training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to identify factors influencing persistent muscle weakness in knee flexor strength after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using the hamstring tendon and establish a clear cut‐off value at 3 months postoperatively for the limb symmetry index (LSI) to exceed 90% at 6 months postoperatively. Methods: One hundred forty‐eight patients undergoing ACL reconstruction were included and categorised into two groups based on knee flexor strength at 6 months postoperatively: patients with LSI of 90% or greater (achieved group: n = 114) and patients with LSI less than 85% (nonachieved group: n = 34). Items with significant differences between the two groups (preoperative waiting period, LSI to body weight ratio of knee flexor and extensor strength at 3 months postoperatively and peak torque angle of knee flexor muscle) were included in the multiple logistic regression analysis. Additionally, a receiver operating characteristic curve was used to calculate the cut‐off value of the LSI at 3 months postoperatively, which was required to achieve the LSI criteria for knee flexor strength 6 months postoperatively. Results: Multiple logistic regression analysis extracted the preoperative waiting period and LSI for knee flexor strength at 3 months postoperatively. The cut‐off value at 3 months postoperatively was 76.9% (area under the curve value, 0.82; sensitivity, 0.76; and specificity, 0.81) of the LSI. Conclusion: The LSI of at least 76.9% for knee flexor strength at 3 months after ACL reconstruction was an indicator for achieving the 6 months postoperatively. This is a criterion to aim for, considering the stress on the graft and the regeneration process of the semitendinosus tendon. Level of evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction after injury does not prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Circulating microRNA (miRNA) and metabolite changes emerging shortly after ACL injury and reconstruction remain insufficiently defined, potentially harbouring early cues contributing to PTOA evolution. Moreover, their differential expression between females and males also may influence PTOA's natural trajectory. This study aims to determine alterations in plasma miRNA and metabolite levels in the early stages following ACL reconstruction and between females and males. A cohort of 43 ACL reconstruction patients was examined. Plasma was obtained at baseline, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks post-surgery (129 biospecimens in total). High-throughput miRNA sequencing and metabolomics were conducted. Differentially expressed miRNAs and metabolites were identified using negative binomial and linear regression models, respectively. Associations between miRNAs and metabolites were explored using time and sex as co-variants, (pre-surgery versus 2 and 6 weeks post-surgery). Using computational biology, miRNA-metabolite-gene interaction and pathway analyses were performed. Levels of 46 miRNAs were increased at 2 weeks post-surgery compared to pre-surgery (baseline) using miRNA sequencing. Levels of 13 metabolites were significantly increased while levels of 6 metabolites were significantly decreased at 2 weeks compared to baseline using metabolomics. Hsa-miR-145-5p levels were increased in female subjects at both 2 weeks (log 2 -fold-change 0.71, 95%CI 0.22,1.20) and 6 weeks (log 2 -fold-change 0.75, 95%CI 0.07,1.43) post-surgery compared to males. In addition, hsa-miR-497-5p showed increased levels in females at 2 weeks (log 2 -fold-change 0.77, 95%CI 0.06,1.48) and hsa-miR-143-5p at 6 weeks (log 2 -fold-change 0.83, 95%CI 0.07,1.59). Five metabolites were decreased at 2 weeks post-surgery in females compared to males: L-leucine (−1.44, 95%CI −1.75,−1.13), g-guanidinobutyrate (−1.27, 95%CI 1.54,−0.99), creatinine (−1.17, 95%CI −1.44,−0.90), 2-methylbutyrylcarnitine (−1.76, 95%CI −2.17,−1.35), and leu-pro (−1.13, 95%CI −1.44,−0.83). MiRNA-metabolite-gene interaction analysis revealed key signalling pathways based on post-surgical time-point and in females versus males. MiRNA and metabolite profiles were modified by time and by sex early after ACL reconstruction surgery, which could influence surgical response and ultimately risk of developing PTOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare opioid analgesic use and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) between patients with and without cannabis use disorder (CUD). Hypothesis: We hypothesized that patients with CUD would have greater postoperative opioid usage with comparable improvement in PROs. Study Design: Retrospective matched-cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: We identified patients with CUD who underwent primary ACLR at a single center and had minimum 3-month follow-up. Patients with CUD were propensity score matched 1:1 to non-CUD controls with respect to age, sex, and follow-up time. Total refills, days supply, and morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) of opioid analgesics prescribed were calculated for up to 1 year postoperatively. Patient-Reported Outcome Information System (PROMIS) instruments were used to assess PROs. Opioid use and outcomes were compared between CUD and control groups using Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test. P values <0.05 were considered significant. Results: A total of 104 patients with CUD were matched to 104 controls. Both groups were majority male (65.4% male, 34.6% female). The CUD group had a mean age of 29.9 years and mean follow-up time of 16.1 months. There was no significant intergroup difference in opioid prescription rates (CUD 82.7% vs control 83.7%, P ≥ 0.99). Among patients prescribed opioids, there were no significant intergroup differences in total days supply (P = 0.67), total MMEs (P = 0.71), or MMEs per day (P = 0.65). There were no significant differences in pre- to postoperative improvement in PROMIS Pain Intensity (P = 0.51), Pain Interference (P = 0.81), Mobility (P = 0.90), Mental Health (P = 0.74), or Physical Health (P = 0.94). Conclusion: There were no significant differences detected in opioid usage or PRO improvement after ACLR between patients with CUD and those without. However, because a sample size was not determined a priori, a larger sample may show a difference. Clinical Relevance: CUD does not appear to correlate with inferior outcomes after ACLR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a debilitating condition and often requires surgery to restore joint stability. Common autografts used for reconstruction include patella tendon and hamstring tendons. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the early to mid-term clinical outcomes of ACL reconstruction using validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). The secondary aim was to compare clinical outcomes between patella tendon and hamstring tendon autografts. The tertiary aim was to compare clinical outcomes between males and females. Methods: Patients with an ACL rupture were evaluated before and after surgery using PROM scores which included Lysholm, Tegner, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Short Form-12 Item (SF-12) and EQ-5D-5L. Results: A total of 87 patients were included in the study. All PROM scores significantly improved following surgery (p < 0.001) at a mean follow-up time of 28 months (range 12 to 88 months). The patella tendon subgroup (n = 27) had superior post-operative results as compared to the hamstring tendon subgroup (n = 60) for KOOS sport and recreation (p = 0.005), KOOS quality of life (p = 0.025), KOOS overall (p = 0.026), Tegner (p = 0.046) and IKDC (p = 0.021) scores. There was no significant difference of PROM scores between males (n = 60) and females (n = 27) (p > 0.05). Conclusions: ACL reconstruction significantly improves clinical outcomes for patients with symptomatic instability consequent to ACL rupture. Overall, patella tendon autograft resulted in better clinical outcomes as compared to hamstring tendon autograft following surgery. Gender did not influence clinical outcome following ACL reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Evaluations allowing patients to return to sport (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) should be multimodal, including a psychological evaluation. The goal of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between the ACL–return to sport after injury (ACL-RSI) score at 6 months post-ACLR and mid-term functional results. Methods: A total of 498 patients were assessed 6 months after primary ACLR using a composite test including isokinetics, hops, and ACL-RSI. A minimum of 3 years of follow-up was necessary. At the last follow-up, each patient completed clinical and functional evaluations, including the subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Tegner Activity Scale, Self Knee Value (SKV), and ACL-RSI score. The results were compared overall and item by item. Results: At the last follow-up, the mean SKV, Tegner, IKDC, and ACL-RSI scores were 86.8 ± 14.3%, 6 ± 2.1, 77 ± 11.9%, and 68.8 ± 25.7%, respectively. A significant correlation existed between the 6-month ACL-RSI score and each functional test (respectively, ρ = 0.189 p < 0.001; ρ = 0.174 p < 0.001; ρ = 0.237 p < 0.001). The ACL-RSI score was significantly higher than at 6 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Over half (59.2%) of the cohort returned to an equal or greater level of activity, and there was a significant correlation between the 6-month ACL-RSI score and post-surgery level of activity. Conclusions: Patients with better ACL-RSI scores at 6 months post-ACLR have better functional results in the medium term and are more likely to RTS. Our results show a correlation between psychological factors at 6 months, measured through the ACL-RSI score, and activity level at mid-term follow-up. This study underlines the relationship between RTS and psychological effects, and the importance of ACLR rehabilitation to focus on decreasing apprehension and fear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patellar tendinopathy is more prevalent in males versus female athletes and commonly presents in the medial region of the tendon. Separate measures of patellar tendon strain in the medial, central, and lateral regions of the tendon, however, have not been quantified. The purpose was to investigate the differences in tendon strain between the medial, lateral, and central regions of the patellar tendon in healthy men and women. Strain in the medial and lateral regions of the patellar tendon in healthy participants (10 males, 10 females) was evaluated using ultrasound during isometric quadriceps contractions at 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVIC) in 60° and 90° of knee flexion. Central strain was also measured at 60% MVIC in 90° of knee flexion. Mixed models were used to determine strain between tendon regions and sex at 60% MVIC in 90° of knee flexion. Sequential modeling was used to fit region, sex, %MVIC, and angle to predict strain. The central region had less strain compared with both medial and lateral regions. The lateral region had higher strain compared with the medial region regardless of sex. Females had higher strain compared with males, regardless of region. Knee position did not influence tendon strain. Patellar tendon strain differs by region and sex. The varying prevalence between sex and in location of patellar tendinopathy may in part be explained by the unbalanced strains. Differential assessment of regional patellar tendon strain may be of importance for understanding injury risk and recovery with exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study radiologically investigated the potential of preoperative recovery of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) in patients who did not undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery in the early stages despite surgical indication. The secondary aim was to investigate the relationship between ALL injuries in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the results of Lachman and pivot shift tests performed preoperatively and postoperatively under anaesthesia among patients who underwent ACLR in acute and chronic stages. Methods: The study examined 100 patients aged 19–51 years who underwent anatomic single bundle ACLR using hamstring autografts for the ACL. Based on the time between the injury and ACLR, they were divided into acute (≤6 months) and chronic (>6 months) groups. The chronic group had three subgroups of ACLR times: 7–12, 13–24 and >24 months. Complete recovery was defined as a change from grade B or C upon injury to grade A before surgery according to the Muramatsu MRI classification. The relationship between preoperative and postoperative Lachman grades and pivot shifting test results and the degree of ALL injury was evaluated. Results: In the chronic group, 19/61 patients (31.1%) had preoperative grade A, and 4/61 patients (6.5%) had grade A at the time of injury. In the acute group, 22/29 patients with grades B and C (76%) had grade 3 preoperative pivot shifting. In the acute group, grades 1 and 2 were more common in patients with grades B and C (10/29, 35%) than grade A (0/10, 0.0%). Conclusion: The improvement rate was 24.6% among patients who did not receive ACLR in the acute phase and underwent ACLR in the chronic phase. In the acute group, the degree of ALL damage was related to the pivot shift results. However, the results in the chronic phase were not associated with the degree of injury. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To review the effectiveness of isokinetic training as an alternative method to traditional isotonic resistance training. Researchers examined data from PubMed, CENTRAL, MEDLINE COMPLETE, and Web of Science until February 2023. A total of 365 entries were obtained from databases, including studies that analyzed the effects of isokinetic vs. isotonic-based rehabilitation in athletes (16–50 years) after a surgical knee intervention. Return to sport (RTS), strength of the flex/extensor compartment of the thigh, muscle mass of the thigh, and knee function were screened as main outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened the studies for eligibility and assessed the risk of bias of the included ones. Six studies involving 181 athletes were included. Isokinetic training demonstrated significant benefits in peak torque for knee flexor-extensor muscles in four studies. Two studies favored isokinetic training over isotonic for strength. Muscle mass findings were mixed, with one study favoring isokinetic significantly and two showing no significant differences. In terms of returning to sport, the isotonic group displayed slightly better limb symmetry index values, but without significance. Isokinetic training outperformed isotonic in two functionality questionnaire studies, while two others showed no significant differences. Isokinetic training appears equally, if not more effective than isotonic, for restoring strength balance between hamstrings and quadriceps. This could lead to more favorable muscle mass changes. Isokinetic training also parallels isotonic rehabilitation for functional outcomes and meeting return-to-sport criteria. Therefore, isokinetic training should be included as one of the main strength restoration strategies after knee surgery, especially in early and middle rehabilitation stages. The present systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022370398). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: The purpose of this review is to summarize current clinical knowledge on the prevalence and types of meniscus pathology seen with concomitant anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, as well as surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, and rehabilitation following operative management of these pathologies. Recent Findings: Meniscus pathology with concomitant ACL injury is relatively common, with reports of meniscus pathology identified in 21–64% of operative ACL injuries. These concomitant injuries have been associated with increased age and body mass index. Lateral meniscus pathology is more common in acute ACL injury, while medial meniscus pathology is more typical in chronic ACL deficiency. Meniscus tear patterns associated with concomitant ACL injury include meniscus root tears, lateral meniscus oblique radial tears of the posterior horn (14%), and ramp lesions of the medial meniscus (8–24%). These meniscal pathologies with concomitant ACL injury are associated with increased rotational laxity and meniscal extrusion. There is a paucity of comparative studies to determine the optimal meniscus repair technique, as well as rehabilitation protocol, depending on specific tear pattern, location, and ACL reconstruction technique. Summary: There has been a substantial increase in recent publications demonstrating the importance of meniscus repair at the time of ACL repair or reconstruction to restore knee biomechanics and reduce the risk of progressive osteoarthritic degeneration. Through these studies, there has been a growing understanding of the meniscus tear patterns commonly identified or nearly missed during ACL reconstruction. Surgical management of meniscal pathology with concomitant ACL injury implements the same principles as utilized in the setting of isolated meniscus repair alone: anatomic reduction, biologic preparation and augmentation, and circumferential compression. Advances in repair techniques have demonstrated promising clinical outcomes, and the ability to restore and preserve the meniscus in pathologies previously deemed irreparable. Further research to determine the optimal surgical technique for specific tear patterns, as well as rehabilitation protocols for meniscus pathology with concomitant ACL injury, is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consensus has not yet been reached regarding combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ALLR) with revisional anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (RACLR). We aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between patients who underwent isolated RACLR and those who underwent RACLR combined with ALLR. Methods: Between June 2010 and June 2021, 49 patients who underwent RACLR were retrospectively reviewed over a 24-month follow-up. Patients were categorized into the isolated RACLR (n = 37, group 1) or combined ALLR group (n = 12, group 2). Clinical outcomes were evaluated with several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for each PROM. The side-to-side difference (SSD) of the anterior instability was measured. The pivot-shift test was performed. Results: Baseline characteristics showed no differences between the groups. PROMs showed no significant differences between the groups at the 2-year follow-up. Group 2 was superior to group 1 in the MCID achievement rate for Lysholm knee and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores at 24 months postoperatively. At the final follow-up, the proportion of IKDC grade A in SSD for anterior laxity was higher in group 2 than in group 1 (58.3% versus [vs.] 18.3%, p = 0.009), and the proportion of pivot-shift grade 0 was also higher in group 2 (66.7% vs. 27.0%, p = 0.013). The "near return to activity" rate was also higher in group 2 than in group 1 (83.3% vs. 45.9%, p = 0.043). Conclusions: Combining ALLR with RACLR in non-athletes results in a higher proportion of patients with less mechanical graft failure and satisfactory clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the graft options for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), hamstring autografts are widely regarded as the preferred choice for primary ACLR among orthopedic surgeons worldwide. However, concerns persist regarding postoperative knee flexor weakness. We aimed to compare knee extensor and flexor strengths between hamstring autograft and tibialis anterior allograft groups in ACLR patients, who were propensity score-matched based on baseline characteristics. A retrospective analysis included 58 matched pairs who underwent isokinetic strength tests at 6 and 12 months post operation. Isokinetic muscle strength tests found no significant difference in knee extensor and flexor strength at 6 months post operation between the hamstring autograft and tibial anterior allograft groups. At 12 months, the hamstring autograft group exhibited significantly greater knee flexor deficit (total work and average power) compared to the allograft group, despite no differences in extensor strength or patient-reported outcomes. This study highlights the impact of hamstring autograft harvesting on muscle strength and recovery following ACLR in short-term period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Discrepant data exists regarding the outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a prior anterior cruciate reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose of our study was to compare surgical and medical outcomes in the patients with prior ACLR undergoing TKAs compared to a matched control group of the patients who had undergone TKAs without prior ACLR. We hypothesized that the patients with prior ACLR would have inferior clinical outcomes. Material/Methods: We retrospectively queried the PearlDiver-database for patients who underwent TKA following ACLR from 2011 to 2020. We used propensity-score matching to create two cohorts. The two-sided independent t-test and Chi-Squared test were used. Results: We identified 2,174 patients who had prior ACLR before the TKAs. There were another 1,348,870 patients who did not have ACLR before the TKAs. After matching, each group had 2,171 patients. The ACLR-TKA group had significantly lower rates of aseptic revision at 2 years (1.2% vs. 4.0%, OR 0.3, p < 0.01), PJI requiring antibiotic spacer at 2 years (0.3% vs. 0.8%, OR 0.35, p = 0.02), and MUA at 90 days (0.4% vs. 7.5%, OR 0.05, p < 0.01). The rate of wound disruption was lower for the ACLR-TKA group at 90 days (p = 0.03) as were several medical complications including AKI at 90 days (p < 0.01), DVT at 90 days (p < 0.01), pneumonia at 90 days (0.04), and required blood transfusion at 90 days (p < 0.01). Conclusion: These results differed from our expectations. Within the limitations of the study, we are unable to determine the factors for the lower complications in the ACLR-TKA group. The data from this study are different from what had been reported in the previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A disadvantage of using hamstring tendon autograft consisting of the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is pain from tendon harvesting and persistent hamstring weakness. In the tendon-sparing all-inside technique, a quadrupled semitendinosus graft and adjustable-loop cortical fixation are suggested to give less postoperative flexion deficits while displaying overall similar clinical results to the traditional hamstring technique. However, there are a limited number of high-quality studies comparing these techniques with inconsistent results. Purpose: To investigate differences between the all-inside (quadrupled semitendinosus) and traditional hamstring (double-stranded semitendinosus and gracilis) technique regarding (1) self-reported function, (2) hamstring strength, and (3) knee laxity. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 98 patients were randomized to either the all-inside or the traditional hamstring technique. Perioperatively, duration of surgery and graft size were obtained. The International Knee Documentation Committee 2000 Subjective Knee Form score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Tegner Activity Scale score, knee laxity (KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side difference and pivot shift), range of motion, isokinetic knee strength, and hop test score were collected preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively. Return-to-sport readiness was evaluated 9 months postoperatively. Results: A total of 89 patients completed 2-year follow-up, 45 patients with the all-inside technique and 44 patients with the traditional hamstring technique. There were no significant differences between groups in any of the outcome measures 2 years after surgery, but there was a tendency in the all-inside group toward having increased anterior translation (mean, 3.6 mm vs 2.7 mm), a higher number of revision surgeries (5 patients vs 2 patients), and more patients having +1 and +2 pivot-shift values (29 vs 18 patients) when compared with the traditional group. Conclusion: The all-inside technique yields equivalent results to the traditional hamstring technique 2 years after surgery and should be considered a reliable technique to use for ACL reconstruction. Sparing the gracilis tendon does not lead to less persistent hamstring weakness. Long-term follow-up is needed to further determine whether the tendency of increased anterior translation seen at 2 years postoperatively will lead to a higher risk of graft failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Stability Study was a multicenter, pragmatic, parallel groups, randomized clinical trial comparing hamstring tendon autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with or without the addition of lateral extra-articular tenodesis in young patients at high risk of graft failure. Having recruited 618 patients with a 5% loss to follow up, we were able to demonstrate a clinically and statistically significant reduction in clinical failure and graft rupture at 2 years postoperative. No differences in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were demonstrated between groups; however, patients who experienced an adverse event had significantly worse PROs than those who did not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

* BACKGROUND: Anterior cruciate ligament tear is a serious knee injury with implications for central nervous system (CNS) plasticity. To perform simple knee movements, people with a history of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R) engage cross-modal brain regions, and when challenged with cognitive-motor dual tasks, physical performance deteriorates. Therefore, people with ACL-R may increase visual-cognitive neural processes for motor control. * CLINICAL QUESTION: What components of CNS plasticity should the rehabilitation practitioner target with interventions, and how can practitioners augment rehabilitation exercises to target injury associated plasticity? * KEY RESULTS: This clinical commentary (1) describes the neurophysiological foundation for visual-cognitive compensation after ACL-R, (2) provides a theoretical rationale for implementing visual-cognitive challenges throughout the return-tosport continuum, and (3) presents a framework for implementing visual-cognitive challenges from the acute phases of rehabilitation. The Visual-Cognitive Control Chaos Continuum (VC-CCC) framework consists of five training difficulties that progress visual-cognitive challenges from high control to high chaos to better represent the demands of sport. * CLINICAL APPLICATION: The VC-CCC framework augments traditional rehabilitation so that each exercise can progress to increase difficulty and promote sensorimotor and visual-cognitive adaptation after ACL-R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), single-leg horizontal hop distance limb symmetry index (LSI) >90% is recommended as a cutoff point for safe return to sport (RTS). However, athletes after ACLR have abnormal lower limb biomechanics despite an adequate single-leg hop distance LSI, implying that athletes are at high risk of reinjury. Symmetry of single-leg vertical jump height appears to be more difficult to achieve and can be a better representation of knee function than single-leg horizontal hop distance. Hypothesis: Athletes after ACLR with single-leg jump height LSI >90% had similar biomechanical characteristics to healthy athletes. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 46 athletes after ACLR were divided into low jump height (LJH, jump height LSI <90%, n = 23) and high jump height (HJH, jump height LSI >90%, n = 23) groups according to symmetry of single-leg vertical jump height, while 24 healthy athletes acted as a control (CONT) group. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare the kinematic and kinetic characteristics of the LJH, HJH, and CONT groups during single-leg vertical jump. Results: Both the LJH and HJH groups demonstrated greater limb asymmetry (lower LSI) during landing compared with the CONT group in knee extension moment (P < 0.05), peak knee flexion angle (P < 0.05), and knee power (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Symmetry in single-leg vertical jump height does not represent normal lower limb biomechanics in athletes after ACLR. Clinical Relevance: Symmetrical jump height may not signify ideal biomechanical or RTS readiness, but single-leg vertical jump test can be used as a supplement to horizontal hop test or other functional tests to reduce the likelihood of false-negative results in the absence of detailed biomechanical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expansion-type anchors have been developed as an alternative to conventional fixation devices, such as screw-type and button-type anchors, for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Here, we present novel expansion-type anchors that minimize damage to both bone tissue and the transplanted ligament during surgery, potentially leading to improved postoperative outcomes for patients. The biomechanical performance of two different expansion-type ACL anchors, the 2 expansion directions type anchor (2EDA) and the 4 expansion directions type anchor (4EDA), was evaluated through finite element analysis. The required force for complete retraction, as well as the stress distribution of the device during the retraction and expansion procedures, was precisely evaluated. Subsequently, we assessed displacement distance and the applied maximum force on bone models under conditions of vertical and oblique force application. The results revealed that both 2EDA and 4EDA for ACL reconstruction have clinical potential, providing sufficient fixation ability under a maximum loading force of 500 N. In this study, we confirmed that ACL reconstruction using the modified expansion-type anchors is a promising approach to enhancing artificial ligament fixation and reducing the risk of postoperative complications. Notably, both 2EDA and 4EDA anchors demonstrated clinical potential, while the 2EDA exhibited improved performance in terms of displacement distance, applied stress, and stress distribution within the bone tunnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 1982 and 1986, 126 patients who had undergoneACL reconstruction were followed in a prospectivemanner. One year follow-up statistics were reviewedfor the presence of 13 different complications.The most prevalent complications were quadricepsweakness, flexion contracture, and patellofemoral pain.Quadriceps weakness (strength less than 80% of thenormal side) was present in 65% of patients and correlatedpositively with flexion contracture, patellar irritability,and ACL reconstructions using patellar tendongrafts. Flexion contracture of 5° or more was presentin 24% of patients and correlated positively with increasedage and patellar irritability. Patellofemoral painwas present in 19% of patients and correlated positivelywith flexion contracture.Clinical relevance: The three most common complicationsof knee ligament surgery are shown to bestrongly interrelated. It is likely that a causal relationshipis present in which flexion contracture causes patellofemoralirritability, and that both of these factors, aloneor in combination, result in quadriceps weakness. If thistheory is correct, then it is crucial that postoperativerehabilitation programs place a major emphasis on theavoidance of flexion contracture.

Abstract Background Concomitant knee injuries, such as meniscal tears, are observed in up to 80% of cases and can have a detrimental impact on outcomes following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Over recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of preserving meniscal tissue. Consequently, the prevalence of meniscal-preserving procedures has been on the rise. Purpose The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of concurrent meniscal procedures, assess the success rate, and identify factors associated with the failure of meniscal repair in patients undergoing ACLR. Methods All patients who underwent ACLR due to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury between January 2015 and December 2022 were extracted from the Republic of Türkiye National health system using operation-specific procedure codes. Patients with multiple ligament injuries, revision ACL patients, and patients with missing data were excluded from the study. The treatment methods were grouped into the subsets of meniscectomy, meniscal repair, transplantation, and meniscectomy + repair. The distribution of ACLR and meniscus treatment methods according to years, age and sex groups, hospital characteristics, and geographical regions was examined. A secondary analysis was performed to assess the effect of patient demographics and hospital healthcare level on revision meniscal procedures in the ACLR + concomitant meniscal repair group. Results A total of 91,700 patients who underwent ACLR between 2015 and 2022 were included in the study. A concomitant meniscal procedure was noted in 19,951(21.8%) patients (16,130 repair,3543 meniscectomy). In the 8 years studied, meniscus repair rates increased from 76.3%to87.9%, while meniscectomy rates decreased from 23.7%to12.1% (p

Abstract Purpose This prospective study aimed to compare the postoperative evaluation of the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method in femoral tunnel position evaluation on 3-Dimensional (3D) reconstructed computed tomography (CT) following the arthroscopic single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods Thirty-eight patients with ACL tears that were reconstructed using single-bundle ACL reconstruction between May 2021 and March 2023 were included in this study. Postoperative 3D CT images were obtained after the operation. The femoral tunnel position was measured by use of the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method. Results Average mean position of the femoral tunnel insertion center on the 3D CT image was at 26.16 ± 6.27% in the x-coordinate and at 24.36 ± 5.52% in the y-coordinate according to the Bernard method. Meanwhile, the position of the femoral insertion of the ACL measured by the quadrant method measuring four points was 24.2% ± 6.86% in the x-coordinate and 21.16% ± 5.14% in the y-coordinate. Conclusions Both the quadrant method measuring four points and Bernard method were effective in femoral tunnel position evaluation on 3D reconstructed CT. Application of the quadrant method measuring four points on 3D CT showed the advantage that measurement can be taken regardless of the shape of the bone tunnel.

Background and Objective: Individuals with a history of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury are at a higher risk of re-injury compared to healthy individuals. ACL-injured patients exhibit weaker longitudinal arches and increased foot pronation compared to healthy individuals. This study aimed to determine the effect of short-term use of anti-pronation insoles on plantar pressure variables following ACL reconstruction (ACLR) with a pronated foot during gait. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 15 male participants who had undergone ACLR with a pronated foot (mean age= 23.2±4.5 years) and 15 healthy males (mean age= 22.7±4.3 years) in Ardabil, Iran during 2022. Plantar pressure values during gait with and without the use of anti-pronation insoles were recorded and compared using a foot scanner (sampling rate: 300 Hz). Results: The effect of the group factor on the big toe plantar pressure variable was statistically significant (P