Knee Flexion Strength Before and After ACL Reconstruction Using Hamstring Tendon Autografts
Mohammad Kazem Emami Meybodi1, Morteza Jannesari1, Alireza Rahim Nia1
1Department of Orthopedics, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
Trauma Monthly
|December 19, 2013
Summary
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using hamstring tendon autografts can lead to reduced knee flexion strength, particularly at higher angles. This study confirms this finding one year post-surgery, highlighting the importance of physiotherapy for rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common, often requiring surgical reconstruction.
- Hamstring tendon autografts are a prevalent method for ACL reconstruction.
- This technique can lead to decreased knee flexion strength and patient dissatisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a common ACL reconstruction procedure on knee flexion strength.
- To assess changes in knee flexion strength at various angles and time points post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 30 patients with ACL tears undergoing reconstruction.
- Knee flexion strength was measured at 20, 45, 90, and 110 degrees before and at 2, 4, 6, and 12 months after surgery.
- Paired t-test was used for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- Knee flexion strength decreased significantly after ACL reconstruction.
- The most pronounced reduction in strength was observed at 90 and 110 degrees of knee flexion.
Conclusions:
- ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon autografts leads to reduced knee flexion strength at high flexion angles (90 and 110 degrees) one year post-surgery.
- These findings align with some previous studies while contradicting others.
- The necessity of physiotherapy for patient rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction was confirmed.
