Extensor strength in the anterior cruciate reconstructed knee

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common orthopedic procedure.
• Patellar tendon autografts are frequently used for ACL reconstruction.
• Assessing long-term functional recovery after ACL reconstruction is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare knee extensor muscle strength between operated and non-operated limbs in individuals who underwent ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon autografts.
• To evaluate residual strength deficits at 2-4 years post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Twenty subjects with ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon autografts were assessed.
• Isokinetic dynamometry (Kin-Com 500H) was used to measure strength.
• Concentric and eccentric muscle actions were evaluated at three velocities.

Main Results:

• Significant deficits were observed in truncated range average torque (TRAT) for knee extensors (8.48% concentric, 6.73% eccentric).
• Peak torque (PT) deficits were also significant (8.26% concentric, 7.96% eccentric).
• No significant differences were found in the angle of peak torque (APT) between limbs.

Conclusions:

• Residual strength deficits in knee extensor muscles are evident 2-4 years post-ACL reconstruction, despite accelerated rehabilitation.
• Continued focus on strengthening knee extensor muscles is recommended for optimal long-term recovery.
• These findings highlight the importance of long-term monitoring and targeted rehabilitation strategies.