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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
Surgical Retrieval, Isolation and In vitro Expansion of Human Anterior Cruciate Ligament-derived Cells for Tissue Engineering Applications
Published on: April 30, 2014
A comprehensive review of partial anterior cruciate ligament tears
Michael J DeFranco1, Bernard R Bach
1Harvard Shoulder Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Yawkey Center for Outpatient Care, 3G, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Abstract:
A partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament is characterized by an asymmetric Lachman-test result, a negative pivot-shift test, a low-grade KT-1000 arthrometer measurement (< or =3 mm), and arthroscopic evidence of anterior cruciate ligament injury. The pivot shift test is the most important test in determining anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency. A positive test, independent of the grade, is indicative of a functionally deficient anterior cruciate ligament. Nonoperative management results in an acceptable clinical outcome in the majority of cases. Progression to knee instability (anterior translation and rotation) depends on the extent of the anterior cruciate ligament injury and the activity level of the patient. Thermal treatment is not recommended for partial tears of the anterior cruciate ligament. Symptomatic instability is treated reliably with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.