[Loss of innervation of the anterior cruciate ligament in idiopathic gonarthrosis].

This study quantifies the neurological structures of the ACL from proximal to distal in the zones A, B and C. 37 knee cadavers of healthy patients were analyzed to determinate the innervation for each age decade. This investigation was undertaken with high specific immuno-histologic sections (APAAP method). Neurofilaments and Schwann cells were isolated identified. In a second group consisting of 15 patients with idiopathic arthritis the ACLs were analyzed. This showed a significant loss of innervation, often, there was a complete deficit. In conclusion, this study revealed that idiopathic arthritis of the knee is associated with a significant deficit of the innervation of the ACL. If this is the reason for the arthritis or a secondary phenomenon is still unknown.