How Does a Cyclops Lesion Impact Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction Recovery?

This case explores the complexities of treating a flexion restriction in a patient following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, medial meniscus repair, and lateral meniscectomy. The aim is to provide insights into the treatment pathway when a flexion restriction develops post-ACL reconstruction and fails to improve with nonoperative measures. The patient, a 16-year-old high school track athlete, sustained a torn right ACL in a car accident and presented with severe knee instability, difficulty climbing stairs, and pain during ambulation. This case highlights the use of various nonoperative treatment strategies to address a flexion restriction that began developing within one month postoperatively. Despite aggressive physical therapy, the use of a knee extension machine, a brace locked in extension, and steroid treatment, the patient exhibited a persistent flexion restriction of five degrees, eventually necessitating surgical intervention. Ultimately, the patient achieved full recovery after undergoing arthroscopic lysis of adhesions and manipulation under anesthesia performed 10 months after the initial ACL reconstruction.