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Anterior Cruciate Ligament rupture (ACL)

Introduction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are common sporting injuries. If untreated, they can result in chronic knee instability, and resultant degenerative changes – such as arthritis, and chondral damage.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent this long-term damage.

Treatment typically involves ligament reconstruction. Colloquially “knee reconstruction” surgery typically refers to ACL repair.

There is a high success rate of return to sport at all levels of competition after surgery.

Epidemiology and Aetiology

Pathophysiology

Anatomy of the knee
Anatomy of the knee

Mechanisms of injury

Presentation

Examination

On knee examination:

Investigation

X-ray

MRI

Management

Conservative management

Operative management

Concurrent meniscal and collateral ligament injuries should be treated at the same time and when treated, improve the overall outcome.

Post-op rehabilitation

 

 

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