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Updated: Apr 3, 2026

Diagnosis of Musculus Gastrocnemius Tightness - Key Factors for the Clinical Examination
Published on: July 7, 2016
[A man with a painful knee with restricted flexion]
Lucia J J Valkering1, Maartje Zengerink, Albert van Kampen
1Ziekenhuis Gelderse Vallei, afd. Orthopedie, Ede.
Abstract:
A 39-year-old man presented with knee pain and limited knee flexion. MRI showed a mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (celery stalk sign). This rare condition can be treated with arthroscopic debridement with volume reduction of the anterior cruciate ligament. In severe cases, anterior cruciate ligament resection could be considered.
Insights
Mucoid degeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) causes knee pain. Arthroscopic surgery can treat this rare condition, with ACL resection as a last resort.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Mucoid degeneration is a rare, degenerative condition affecting ligaments.
- The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is crucial for knee stability.
- Accurate diagnosis of ACL pathology is essential for effective treatment.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old male patient presented with symptomatic knee pain and restricted flexion.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed characteristic findings suggestive of mucoid degeneration of the ACL.
- The "celery stalk sign" on MRI is a key indicator of this condition.
Findings:
- Mucoid degeneration of the ACL, while uncommon, presents a diagnostic challenge.
- The "celery stalk sign" on MRI is pathognomonic for mucoid degeneration of the ACL.
- This condition can lead to significant knee dysfunction and pain.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management of ACL mucoid degeneration are crucial.
- Arthroscopic debridement with volume reduction offers a viable treatment option.
- In severe or refractory cases, ACL resection may be necessary to restore function.
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