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Knee function after anterior cruciate ligament ruptures treated conservatively
B Engström1, J Gornitzka, C Johansson
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Huddinge University Hospital, Sweden.
International Orthopaedics
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Conservative treatment for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures leads to long-term functional deficits. Most patients experience persistent symptoms and reduced activity levels, impacting sports participation and overall knee function.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are common knee injuries.
- Conservative management is an alternative to surgical reconstruction for ACL tears.
- Long-term outcomes of conservative ACL treatment require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term functional outcomes of patients with ACL ruptures treated conservatively.
- To assess subjective knee function, activity levels, and objective knee impairments after conservative ACL management.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 39 patients with ACL ruptures treated conservatively was followed.
- Objective measures included isokinetic knee torques, hop tests, and knee joint laxity.
- Subjective assessment involved the Tegner activity score and patient satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Significant long-term impairments in knee extensor/flexor torques and hop performance were observed.
- Tegner activity scores were significantly lower than desired, with limited return to pivoting sports.
- No correlation was found between functional impairment and knee joint laxity tests.
Conclusions:
- Conservative management of ACL ruptures results in persistent functional deficits and reduced quality of life.
- Most patients experience ongoing symptoms and are dissatisfied with knee function despite rehabilitation.
- Objective knee impairments persist long-term, independent of joint laxity.