Patient expectations of primary and revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Level 1 Athletes: Factors Associated With Return to Play, Reinjury, and Knee Function at 5 Years of Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Favorable outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) are often gauged by successful return to play (RTP), a low incidence of subsequent ACL injury, and positive patient-reported outcomes. Level 1 sports place the highest demands on the knee by requiring frequent pivoting, changes in direction, and jumping.

PURPOSE

To analyze the outcomes of primary ACLR in level 1 athletes and identify pre- and intraoperative factors associated with RTP, ipsilateral ACL reinjury, contralateral ACL injury, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score at 5 years postoperatively.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A consecutive cohort of 1432 patients who underwent primary ACLR by 2 orthopaedic surgeons were prospectively evaluated. The RTP rate, incidence of ipsilateral/contralateral ACL injury, and IKDC score were analyzed at 5 years. Comparative analysis of clinical variables was performed between those who achieved favorable outcomes and those who did not. Outcomes at 5 and 2 years were also compared.

RESULTS

The mean age was 24.3 ± 7.3 years (males: 75%, females: 25%). Gaelic football was the predominant sport (40%), followed by soccer (19%). The RTP rate was 87.4%, with 59.8% of athletes still playing at an equivalent or higher level at 5 years. The incidence of ipsilateral reinjury for athletes who resumed level 1 sport was 4.3% for bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts with screw fixation and 19.7% for hamstring tendon (HT) autografts with EndoButton and screw fixation. The incidence of contralateral ACL injury was 13.7%. The mean IKDC score at 5 years (86.6 ± 10.9) was comparable to that at 2 years (86.8 ± 10.1). Patients were more likely to RTP with each year of decreasing age (OR, 1.06; P < .001), with a higher preoperative Marx score (OR, 1.08; P < .001) or a higher 5-year IKDC score (OR, 1.06; P < .001). The risk of ipsilateral ACL reinjury increased each year of decreasing age (OR, 1.11; P < .001) or when an HT autograft was used (OR, 5.56; P < .001). Younger age was also associated with contralateral ACL injury (OR, 1.1; P < .001). Female sex, older age, concomitant meniscal/chondral injuries, and lower preoperative Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury scores were associated with lower IKDC scores at 5 years.

CONCLUSION

Most patients could return to level 1 sports, although their performance level was impacted. Those who returned to sport maintained their performance level over the 5 years. The ipsilateral reinjury rate for BPTB autografts with screws was significantly lower than that for HT autografts with EndoButton and screw fixation. Most ACL reinjuries occurred between 2 and 5 years of follow-up. Younger patients had an increased risk of a subsequent ACL injury to either knee, regardless of graft type. IKDC scores were lower in female patients, older patients, and those with concomitant meniscal/cartilage injuries.

REGISTRATION

NCT02771548 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Regional Anesthesia and Pain Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery in Pediatric Patients: Society of Pediatric Anesthesia Improvement Network

BACKGROUND

Optimal perioperative pain management is unknown for adolescent patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The study aimed to determine the association of nerve blocks with short- and long-term pain outcomes and factors influencing self-reported neurological symptoms.

METHODS

We performed a multisite, prospective observational study of adolescent patients undergoing ACLR. Perioperative data included demographics, block details, anesthetic, and surgical techniques. Self-reported surveys documented pain scores, medication use, and neurological symptoms at various time points after the surgery (postoperative day [POD] 1, POD 3, week 6, and month 6). Associations between different groups of peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) and the absence of a block were analyzed for their effects on acute postoperative pain outcomes. In addition, factors influencing self-reported neurological outcomes were determined using both univariate and multivariate regression.

RESULTS

Data from 519 subjects (aged 15 years, 55.7% female) showed that 23.9% of patients with anterior plus posterior nerve blocks (A+P PNB) reported severe postanesthesia care unit (PACU) pain scores, compared to 40% with no PNB and 38.3% with anterior PNB (A-PNB). Patients receiving A-PNB or A+P PNB had significantly lower intraoperative morphine equivalents (MEs) (0.49 mg/kg and 0.46 mg/kg, respectively) vs no block patients (0.61 mg/kg). Total PACU MEs were lower for any patient who received a PNB. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that patients who received A+P PNB or a hamstring autograft had lower POD 1 severe pain scores (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15-0.84 and OR = 0.35; 95% CI, 0.15-0.83, respectively). Patients with PNBs with local anesthesia concentration (LAC) greater than 0.25% reported higher POD1 pain scores (OR = 2.14; 95% CI, 1.1-4.16) compared to those with lower LAC. Patients with PNB catheters had reduced POD 1 pain. Multivariable logistic regression analysis for numbness at week 6 revealed a greater odds of numbness for A-PNB with LAC >0.25% (OR = 5.13; 95% CI, 1.27-20.8). At month 6, patients receiving PNB with perineural steroid adjuvant were more likely to report numbness (dexamethasone OR = 5.93; 95% CI, 1.61-21.9, methylprednisolone OR = 11.3; 95% CI, 2.16-58.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who received A+P PNB had lower postoperative pain scores than those who received no block. Additional studies are necessary to discern how PNB type, graft harvest site, LAC, and adjuvants influence pain control, persistent numbness, and weakness.

Preoperative Rank of Expectations for Shoulder Surgery (PRESS): a novel survey

BACKGROUND

Patient expectations for orthopedic surgeries, and elective shoulder surgery in particular, have been shown to be important for patient outcomes and satisfaction. Current surveys assessing patient expectations lack clinical applicability and allow patients to list multiple expectations at the highest level of importance. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate the use of a novel, rank-based survey assessing the relative importance of patient expectations for shoulder surgery.

METHODS

The Preoperative Rank of Expectations for Shoulder Surgery (PRESS) survey was developed by polling 100 patients regarding their expectations for surgery. The PRESS survey consisted of 8 common expectations for elective shoulder surgery by importance and a 0%-100% scale of expected pain relief and range of motion improvement. After initial development of the PRESS survey, it was administered preoperatively to 316 patients undergoing surgery for shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tear, subacromial pain syndrome, or glenohumeral instability between August 2020 and April 2021. Patients also completed preoperative outcome measures such as the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity Physical Function 7a version 1.0 (PROMIS PF), and PROMIS Pain Interference short form 8a version 2.0 (PROMIS PI) surveys. Patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) surveys were administered 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Improvement in range of motion was the expectation most often ranked first for the entire study group (18%), arthritis subgroup (23%), and rotator cuff tear subgroup (19%). Subacromial pain syndrome patients most often ranked improving ability to complete activities of daily living and relieving daytime pain first (19%). Shoulder instability patients most often ranked improving ability to participate in sports first (31%). Patients who ranked improving range of motion or sports highly had better PROMs. Those who ranked relieving pain highly had worse PROMs. Patients with high (>90%) expectations of pain relief had better PROMIS PI scores. Patients with high pain relief expectations in the arthritis and subacromial pain syndrome groups had better PROMs, whereas patients with instability were less satisfied.

CONCLUSION

The novel PRESS survey assesses patient expectations for shoulder surgery in a new, more clinically applicable rank-based format. The responses provided by patients provide actionable information to clinicians and are related to postoperative outcomes. Therefore, the PRESS survey represents a useful tool for guiding discussions between patients and surgeons, as well as aiding in overall patient-centered clinical decision making.

Revision ACL reconstruction, but not bilateral ACL reconstruction, is associated with clinically relevant inferior subjective knee function compared with primary ACL reconstruction: A comparative analysis of 6831 patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate and compare the subjective knee function in patients undergoing revision and bilateral anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) with those undergoing primary ACLR in a large cohort.

METHODS

Patients without concomitant ligament injuries who underwent primary, revision or bilateral ACLR at the Capio Artro Clinic, Stockholm, Sweden, between 2005 and 2018 were identified. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) was collected preoperatively and at 1, 2 and 5 years postoperatively from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry. Patients who underwent revision and bilateral ACLR were compared with those who underwent primary ACLR (control group) using Student's t test.

RESULTS

A total of 6831 patients (6102 with primary ACLRs, 343 with revision ACLRs and 386 with bilateral ACLRs) were included. Preoperatively, there were significant but nonclinically relevant differences in favour of the revision ACLR group for KOOS Symptoms, Pain, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Sport/Rec subscale scores compared with the primary ACLR group. Postoperatively, except for the 1-year Symptoms and ADL subscales, the revision ACLR group reported significantly lower scores on all KOOS subscales than the primary ACLR group, with clinically relevant differences (>8-10 points) for the 1-, 2- and 5-year Sport/Rec and Quality of Life (QOL) subscales. The bilateral ACLR group reported significantly, but not clinically relevant, inferior scores on the 1-year Symptoms and QOL subscales and the 5-year Sport/Rec and QOL subscales compared with the primary ACLR group.

CONCLUSIONS

Revision ACLR, but not bilateral ACLR, was associated with clinically relevant inferior subjective knee function compared with primary ACLR. It is important to counsel patients regarding their future subjective knee function after repeated ACLR. Compared to primary ACLR, inferior subjective results should be expected after revision ACLR, but not after bilateral ACLR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Relationship Between Single-Leg Vertical Jump and Drop Jump Performance, and Return to Sports After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Hamstring Graft

Background

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), asymmetry is likely to persist in single-leg (SL) vertical jump and drop jump performance than in SL hop distance. However, its relationship with the return to sport (RTS) remains unclear.

Hypothesis/Purpose

This study aimed to determine the association between vertical jump performance after primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft and RTS at a pre-injury competitive level.

Study design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Patients who underwent primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft were recruited for this study. Participants who returned to pre-injury competition after ACLR were recruited at least eight months postoperatively. Knee condition was assessed, including joint laxity, range of motion, muscle strength, and knee pain intensity during sports activities. Performance variables were also assessed, including SL hop distance, jump height in SL vertical jump, and reactive strength index (RSI; jump height/contact time) in SL drop jump. Participants were asked to subjectively report whether they had returned to the same level of competition as pre-injury and their perceived sport performance intensity. Those who answered "Yes" to the dichotomous question and had a postoperative subjective athletic performance of > 80% were categorized into the Yes-RTS group. The primary outcome was the ability to achieve RTS at the preinjury level.

Results

Sixty-five patients (female, 35; male, 30) at 13.0 (13.0) [median (interquartile)] months after ACLR participated in this study. Thirty-nine (60%) were assigned to the Yes-RTS group. Regarding knee conditions, the No-RTS group had a significantly higher knee pain intensity, as assessed using a numerical rating scale (p<0.001, effect size -0.45). In the performance tests, the No-RTS group exhibited a significantly lower limb symmetry index of RSI during the SL drop jump compared to the Yes-RTS group (p=0.002, effect size 0.81).

Conclusion

Patients unable to achieve RTS after primary ACLR using hamstring grafts are more likely to exhibit asymmetric performance during the SL drop jump test, suggesting the significance of assessing jump symmetry when evaluating post-ACLR rehabilitation success.

Level of Evidence

3c.

Factors Associated With a Successful Return to Performance After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Multiparametric Evaluation in Soccer Players

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is highly recommended in patients with ACL deficiency who must perform at a high physical level. A combination of functional and psychological outcome measures is necessary to provide a comprehensive evaluation of functional status after successful return to sport after ACLR.

Purpose

To identify factors associated with higher functional outcomes among soccer players who had returned to full sports participation after ACLR.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

A total of 168 out of 231 patients who underwent primary unilateral arthroscopic anatomic single-bundle ACLR were available at follow-up. Postoperatively, knee function, generic health outcomes, and psychological impact were assessed using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, the 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and the ACL-Return to Sport after Injury scale.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 35.5 ± 22.6 months, 85% of soccer players returned to performance. Midfielder position was associated with a better SF-12 Physical Component Summary (PCS) score (P = .013), IKDC (P = .003), total KOOS (P < .001), KOOS Symptoms (P = .004), KOOS Pain (P = .029), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (P = .044), KOOS Sport and Recreation (Sport/Rec) (P = .001), KOOS Quality of Life (QoL) (P < .001), and Lysholm score (P = .008). Playing only on natural grass was associated with lower SF-12 PCS scores (P = .003), total KOOS (P = .001), and KOOS Sport/Rec (P = .011). Playing only on artificial turf was associated with lower Lysholm score (P = .018) and total KOOS (P = .014). The contact mechanism was associated with higher IKDC (P = .044) and KOOS QoL (P = .048), and injury affecting the dominant limb was associated with lower SF-12 Mental Component Summary scores (P = .012). Playing at a nonprofessional level was associated with lower total KOOS (P = .028), KOOS Symptoms (P = .002), KOOS ADL (P = .033), and KOOS Sport/Rec (P = .016).

Conclusion

Professional soccer players and the midfielder position are associated with better functional scores upon returning to the sport. A history of noncontact ACL injury and playing on a single type of surface are associated with lower functional outcomes upon returning to the sport. Lower mental health scores can be expected after injury of the dominant limb.

'Going through the motions'; a rich account of the complexity of the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction pathway, a UK qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of patients on the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) pathway up to 3 months before, 3 months after and 1 year after surgery. Study objectives were to explore (1) patient experiences of preoperative and postoperative treatment, (2) views of/involvement in prehabilitation and (3) sources and consistency of healthcare advice.

DESIGN

Semi-structured interviews analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

SETTING

Midlands, England.

PARTICIPANTS

Purposive sample of 18 participants aged 18-45. Three identified as female and 15 as male. Participants' ethnic origin was white (n=14), Indian (n=2), British Asian (n=1) and Pakistani (n=1). 10 participants were awaiting ACLR, six were 3months postsurgery and two were 1 year postsurgery.

RESULTS

Participants gave a rich account of ACLR pathway experiences discussing negative impacts of the injury, difficulties with navigating the pathway and making decisions about surgery. Interacting with healthcare professionals and managing the variety of resources, advice and opinions were also highlighted as challenges. Participants reflected on their preoperative journey accounting a wide spectrum of expectations and realities of returning to work and physical activity postoperatively. Prehabilitation was perceived to offer an advantage to recovery, mental well-being, injury knowledge, postoperative rehabilitation and supports a faster return to physical activity. Five themes were identified:Injury experience, impact and support.Navigating the treatment pathway.Sense making in the preoperative period.Uncertainty, expectations and reality of the postsurgical period.Balancing resources, advice and opinions.

CONCLUSION

This study has illuminated patient experiences of the National Health Service (NHS) ACLR pathway, novel to the evidence base.The results highlight the perceived shortcomings in patient support. They also demonstrate the difficulty patients face when navigating the NHS system, communicating with clinicians, making decisions about treatment and managing conflicting sources of healthcare advice. These problems are more prominent than previously recognised in the literature.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05529511.

Demographic and surgical characteristics in patients who do not achieve minimal important change in the KOOS Sport/Rec and QoL after ACL reconstruction: a comparative study from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare demographic and surgical characteristics between patients who do and do not achieve minimal important change (MIC) in the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sports and Recreation (Sport/Rec) and Quality of Life (QoL) subscales 1 year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

DESIGN

Comparative cross-sectional.

SETTING

The MIC for the KOOS Sport/Rec subscale was ≥12.1 and ≥18.3 for the KOOS QoL subscale from before surgery to 1-year follow-up using data from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry.

PARTICIPANTS

In total 16 131 patients were included: 11 172 (69%) with no MIC for the Sport/Rec scale, and 10 641 (66%) for the QoL.

RESULTS

Patients with no MIC for Sport/Rec and QoL had a higher body mass index (BMI) (24.8±3.5 vs 24.6±3.3 and 24.7±3.5 vs 24.6±3.2, respectively, p<0.0001), were younger (years) at time of surgery (28.5±10.3 vs 29.1±10.8 and 27.4±9.8 vs 29.7±11.0, respectively, p=0.0002 and <0.0001), had longer time from injury to surgery (months) (Sports/Rec 22.0±38.5 vs 19.3±36.6, respectively, p=0.0002), and greater rates of concomitant cartilage injuries especially to the lateral femoral condyle (22.7% vs 19.4% and 23.3% vs 19.0%, respectively, p=0.001 and p=0.005) compared with patients who achieved the MIC. A smaller proportion of patients treated with a hamstring tendon autograft had no MIC (91.4%) compared with patients with MIC (94.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with no MIC for KOOS Sport/Rec and QoL subscales had a higher BMI, longer time from injury to surgery and were younger at the time of surgery compared with patients who did achieve MIC. Although differences were small, they may reframe management strategies with patients who have these characteristics.

A Qualitative Study of Factors Perceived to Influence Physical Activity among Young Athletes after ACL Reconstruction

Background

Despite evidence of alarming declines in physical activity levels after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), very little is known about how young athletes perceive their experiences with engagement in sports and physical activity in the years following ACLR.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The purpose of this study was to answer the research question, "what are the lived experiences and perceptions of factors that facilitate or hinder physical activity among young athletes following ACLR?".

Study Design

Qualitative Study.

Methods

Ten participants were included in this qualitative study at a median of 5.9 (4.3-10.2) years after adolescent ACLR. Using an interpretive phenomenological methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant. Data collection focused on participants' lived experiences related to physical activity participation in the years after ACLR. Iterative coding with two independent coders and a peer debriefing process were used to identify themes from the data.

Results

Factors perceived to influence physical activity after ACLR spanned all levels of the socioecological framework. Three overarching themes were generated during thematic analysis: 1) navigation of barriers (common obstacles, injury-related limitations, unique adaptations), 2) movement motives (ingrained desire to move, external motivators, internal motivation), and 3) movement mindset (envisions for future physical activity, perceived impact of injury, belief in the power of sports).

Conclusion

The themes identified in this study indicate that the adolescent ACLR experience has the potential to significantly influence one's physical activity into young adulthood, both positively and negatively. These findings serve as an important foundation for future studies to explore the psychological and environmental factors identified as important to one's physical activity participation in the years following adolescent ACLR.

Level of Evidence

Level 3.

Preoperative Psychological Competitive Ability Is Associated With Emotional States Six Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Hamstring Autograft: A Prospective Study

Background Psychological state has been reported as one of the factors strongly related to a return to sports after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, its relationship with the emotional state remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction and have a higher preoperative psychological competitive ability have a better emotional status preoperatively and six months postoperatively. Methods Patients with a Tegner activity score of ≥6 who underwent ACL reconstruction between 2015 and 2020 were divided into two groups according to their grades on the Diagnostic Inventory of Psychological Competitive Ability for Athletes (DIPCA.3). The emotional states preoperatively and at six months postoperatively were assessed using the Profile of Mood States Second Edition (POMS2) and compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the possibility of returning to sports was compared between the groups based on participation in the entire practice at six months postoperatively. Results Eighty-four patients were included and divided into the high (DIPCA.3 grades ≥4, n = 23) and low (DIPCA.3 <4, n = 61) groups. Vigor-activity and friendliness were significantly higher in the high group than in the low group preoperatively. The difference was even greater at six months after ACL reconstruction. In addition, the high group showed significantly better results postoperatively for fatigue-inertia and total mood disturbance. Rates of return to sports did not differ significantly between the high and low groups (56.5% vs. 54.1%). Conclusions Those with a higher preoperative psychological competitive ability were in a positive emotional state preoperatively and six months after ACL reconstruction. However, the psychological competitive ability did not affect the rate of participation in the entire practice at six months postoperatively.

Correlation between Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury Score at 6 Months after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Mid-Term Functional Test Results: An Observational Study at 5-Year Follow-Up

Background/Objectives: Evaluations allowing patients to return to sport (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) should be multimodal, including a psychological evaluation. The goal of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between the ACL-return to sport after injury (ACL-RSI) score at 6 months post-ACLR and mid-term functional results. Methods: A total of 498 patients were assessed 6 months after primary ACLR using a composite test including isokinetics, hops, and ACL-RSI. A minimum of 3 years of follow-up was necessary. At the last follow-up, each patient completed clinical and functional evaluations, including the subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Tegner Activity Scale, Self Knee Value (SKV), and ACL-RSI score. The results were compared overall and item by item. Results: At the last follow-up, the mean SKV, Tegner, IKDC, and ACL-RSI scores were 86.8 ± 14.3%, 6 ± 2.1, 77 ± 11.9%, and 68.8 ± 25.7%, respectively. A significant correlation existed between the 6-month ACL-RSI score and each functional test (respectively, ρ = 0.189 p < 0.001; ρ = 0.174 p < 0.001; ρ = 0.237 p < 0.001). The ACL-RSI score was significantly higher than at 6 months after surgery (p < 0.001). Over half (59.2%) of the cohort returned to an equal or greater level of activity, and there was a significant correlation between the 6-month ACL-RSI score and post-surgery level of activity. Conclusions: Patients with better ACL-RSI scores at 6 months post-ACLR have better functional results in the medium term and are more likely to RTS. Our results show a correlation between psychological factors at 6 months, measured through the ACL-RSI score, and activity level at mid-term follow-up. This study underlines the relationship between RTS and psychological effects, and the importance of ACLR rehabilitation to focus on decreasing apprehension and fear.

Are demographics, physical function and psychological response associated with return to sport at one year following ACL-reconstruction?

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relative contribution of each of the following aspects: demographics, physical function, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including both physical and psychological constructs, to return to sport (RTS) (any level) one-year post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional cohort study.

METHODS

We included data for 143 participants (73 women, mean (SD) age 24 (5.8) years) ∼ one-year post-ACLR. Data comprised demographics, physical function (hop performance, hip and knee peak torque) and PROMs (Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscales, perceived stress, and ACL Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI)). We then used a Z-normalized multivariable logistic regression model to establish the relative contribution of factors associated with RTS.

RESULTS

Sixty-four (45%) of the participants had returned to sport at one year post-ACLR. In the regression model, greater hip abduction peak torque (OR = 1.70, 95% CI; 1.01 to 2.84) and greater psychological readiness to RTS (OR = 2.32, 95% CI; 1.30 to 4.12) were the only variables associated with RTS (R2 = 0.352).

CONCLUSIONS

The significant contribution of hip abduction strength and psychological readiness to RTS was still relatively small, suggesting other potential factors explaining RTS which may not be captured by common RTS criteria.

Reliability and Validity of Temporal Parameters during the Side Hop Test in Patients after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: The side hop test (SHT) measures the number of jumps performed over 30 s. Although this measure has demonstrated its value in clinical practice, the temporal parameters of the SHT allow for a deeper analysis of the execution strategy. The aim of this study is to assess the reliability and construct validity of contact time parameters during the SHT recorded by a video analysis system in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed (ACLR) patients. Methods: We investigated the reliability (intra-rater, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum detectable change (MDC)), discriminant validity (operated (OP) versus non-operated (NOP) side), and convergent validity (relationship with strength and psychological readiness) of SHT contact time parameters, number of valid hops and limb symmetry index (LSI) in 38 ACLR patients. Contact time parameters are presented as mean, standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV) of contact time. Results: Intra-tester reliability was good to excellent for all contact time parameters. For discriminant validity, the mean and SD contact times of the OP leg were significantly longer than those of the NOP leg, although the difference was smaller than the SEM and MDC values. The number of valid jumps and CV contact time parameters were not significantly different. Isokinetic quadriceps strength (60°/s) was strongly correlated with mean contact time for both legs. However, psychological readiness was not correlated with any of the contact time parameters. Conclusions: Temporal parameters of the SHT measured on video analysis are valid and reliable parameters to assess the performance strategy of the SHT. The results should be interpreted with caution regarding the SEM and MDC values. Further studies are needed to measure criterion validity, inter-rater reliability, and responsiveness.

Assessment of the Quality and Readability of Information Provided by ChatGPT in Relation to the Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Osteoarthritis

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality and readability of information generated by ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4 concerning platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA), exploring whether large language models (LLMs) could play a significant role in patient education. Design: A total of 23 common patient queries regarding the role of PRP therapy in knee OA management were presented to ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4. The quality of the responses was assessed using the DISCERN criteria, and readability was evaluated using six established assessment tools. Results: Both ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4 produced moderate quality information. The quality of information provided by ChatGPT version 4 was significantly better than version 3.5, with mean DISCERN scores of 48.74 and 44.59, respectively. Both models scored highly with respect to response relevance and had a consistent emphasis on the importance of shared decision making. However, both versions produced content significantly above the recommended 8th grade reading level for patient education materials (PEMs), with mean reading grade levels (RGLs) of 17.18 for ChatGPT version 3.5 and 16.36 for ChatGPT version 4, indicating a potential barrier to their utility in patient education. Conclusions: While ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4 both demonstrated the capability to generate information of moderate quality regarding the role of PRP therapy for knee OA, the readability of the content remains a significant barrier to widespread usage, exceeding the recommended reading levels for PEMs. Although ChatGPT version 4 showed improvements in quality and source citation, future iterations must focus on producing more accessible content to serve as a viable resource in patient education. Collaboration between healthcare providers, patient organizations, and AI developers is crucial to ensure the generation of high quality, peer reviewed, and easily understandable information that supports informed healthcare decisions.

Return to sports after an ACL reconstruction in 2024 - A glass half full? A narrative review

A successful return to sports (RTS) after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is multifactorial, and therefore difficult and challenging. Unfortunately, low percentages of patients RTS, and for those who succeed, one-fifth of patients will sustain a second ACL injury. Over the past years, test batteries were developed to assess whether patients can RTS with a low risk for a second ACL injury risk. Low rates of patients who meet RTS criteria were found, coupled with the insufficiency of current RTS test batteries in predicting second ACL injuries suggesting poor sensitivity. The result of an RTS test is likely to reflect the content of a rehabilitation program, raising critical questions regarding what we are offering patients within the rehabilitation programme. Are we preparing our patients well enough for the high demands of complex situations within pivoting team sports? This narrative review offers insights from key lessons of the last 15 years on 1) RTS testing, 2) the content of rehabilitation, and 3) the RTS continuum, all from a "helicopter perspective".

Greater changes in self-reported activity level are associated with decreased quality of life in patients following an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between change in physical activity level, as defined as the change from pre-to post-operative Tegner Activity Scale, and quality of life (QOL) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), before patients are cleared for return to sport.

PARTICIPANTS

1198 participants (42.9% male; 18.7 ± 3.6 years; 7.1 ± 3.7 months post-ACLR).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surveys included Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score QOL (KOOS-QOL) subscale and Tegner Activity Scale. KOOS-QOL score ≥62.5 is considered as meeting a previously established patient acceptable symptom state.

RESULTS

The acceptable KOOS-QOL group reported a significantly smaller decrease in activity level from pre-injury to time of data collection (median: 2.00, IQR: 2.00) than the unacceptable KOOS-QOL group (median: 3.00, IQR: 3.00). Across the full cohort, for every one-point larger decrease in Tegner score from pre-to post-ACLR, there is a 52% increase in the odds of having an unacceptable KOOS-QOL score. For adolescents, the odds increase to 60% while the odds for adults were lower at 39%.

CONCLUSIONS

Following ACLR, greater decreases in physical activity level are associated with poorer QOL for both adolescents and adults at short-term follow-up, and this effect is larger amongst adolescents.

Platelet-rich plasma augmentation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Evidence is still too scattered. A scoping review of randomised controlled trials

PURPOSE

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) augmentation has been proposed to improve the results of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The present study aims to quantify the available evidence to support the use of PRP as biological augmentation in ACLR surgery.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted on the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science and Embase databases on 10 March 2023. Inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials (RCTs), written in English, addressing PRP augmentation in ACLR surgery, with no time limitation. A scoping review was performed to map the body of literature by examining the evidence related to specific aspects of patients' treatment and evaluation. Risk of bias evaluation was performed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials Version 2 (RoB 2), while the quality assessment was performed with the use of the Coleman Score.

RESULTS

Out of 983 articles retrieved, 23 RCTs on 943 knees were included in this scoping review. PRP was administered in a liquid form in nine studies and clotted in 11 studies, while in three studies both liquid and clotted PRP were used. Hamstring auto/allografts were used in 14 studies, patellar tendon auto/allografts were used in eight studies and one study described ACLR with peroneus longus allografts. The map of the evidence documented high heterogeneity also in terms of surgical technique, objective and subjective outcome measures and radiological assessment, as well as follow-up times ranging from 1 day to 2 years, with virtually no overlapping data among studies neither in terms of treatments nor evaluations. Risk of bias evaluation showed an overall low quality of the included studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The available literature addressing PRP augmentation in ACLR is largely scattered. PRP was produced and applied following different procedures, and high variability was detected across the included studies for every aspect of ACLR surgery and evaluation. Currently, a meaningful comparison of the available studies is not possible as the quantification of the literature results is biased by their heterogeneity. Future studies should provide more standardisation to investigate the benefits of biological augmentation in ACL surgery and confirm the promising yet weak evidence of PRP potential as well as the most suitable application modality, before routine use in clinical practice.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Levels I and II, scoping review.

Assessment of Quality and Readability of Information Provided by ChatGPT in Relation to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

The aim of our study was to evaluate the potential role of Artificial Intelligence tools like ChatGPT in patient education. To do this, we assessed both the quality and readability of information provided by ChatGPT 3.5 and 4 in relation to Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and treatment. ChatGPT 3.5 and 4 were used to answer common patient queries relating to ACL injuries and treatment. The quality of the information was assessed using the DISCERN criteria. Readability was assessed with the use of seven readability formulae: the Flesch-Kincaid Reading Grade Level, the Flesch Reading Ease Score, the Raygor Estimate, the SMOG, the Fry, the FORCAST, and the Gunning Fog. The mean reading grade level (RGL) was compared with the recommended 8th-grade reading level, the mean RGL among adults in America. The perceived quality and mean RGL of answers given by both ChatGPT 3.5 and 4 was also compared. Both ChatGPT 3.5 and 4 yielded DISCERN scores suggesting "good" quality of information, with ChatGPT 4 slightly outperforming 3.5. However, readability levels for both versions significantly exceeded the average 8th-grade reading level for American patients. ChatGPT 3.5 had a mean RGL of 18.08, while the mean RGL of ChatGPT 4 was 17.9, exceeding the average American reading grade level by 10.08 grade levels and 9.09 grade levels, respectively. While ChatGPT can provide both reliable and good quality information on ACL injuries and treatment options, the readability of the content may limit its utility. Additionally, the consistent lack of source citation represents a significant area of concern for patients and clinicians alike. If AI is to play a role in patient education, it must reliably produce information which is accurate, easily comprehensible, and clearly sourced.

Female Athletes With Better Psychological Readiness Are at Higher Risk for Second ACL Injury After Primary ACL Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Approximately 1 in 4 athletes returning to sports will sustain a second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Psychological factors related to kinesiophobia, confidence, and psychological readiness are associated with second ACL injury; however, the evidence is conflicting.

HYPOTHESIS

Athletes who sustain a second ACL injury (ie, graft rupture or contralateral ACL rupture) within 2 years of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) would have greater kinesiophobia, less confidence, and lower psychological readiness prior to return to sport (RTS) compared with athletes who do not sustain a second ACL injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a prospective randomized trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

METHODS

A total of 39 female Level I/II athletes completed the following measures after postoperative rehabilitation and a 10-session RTS and second ACL injury prevention program: ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale, the 11-item Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-11), and question 3 on the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) quality of life (QoL) subscale. Athletes were dichotomized based on whether they sustained a second ACL injury within 2 years of ACLR or not. Independent t tests determined group differences in TSK-11, KOOS-QoL, ACL-RSI, and the 3 individual components of the ACL-RSI (ie, emotions, confidence, risk appraisal).

RESULTS

Nine athletes sustained a second ACL injury (4 graft ruptures and 5 contralateral ACL ruptures). The group that sustained a second ACL injury had higher scores on the ACL-RSI (P = 0.03), higher on the risk appraisal questions of the ACL-RSI (P < 0.01), and met RTS criteria sooner than athletes who did not (P = 0.04). All second ACL injuries occurred in athletes who underwent primary ACLR with hamstring tendon autografts.

CONCLUSION

Athletes who sustained a second ACL within 2 years of ACLR had a more positive psychological outlook, higher scores on the specific questions related to the risk appraisal construct of the ACL-RSI, and met RTS criteria sooner than athletes who did not sustain a second ACL injury.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Counseling athletes about delaying RTS to reduce the risk of second ACL injury may be especially important in athletes who display high psychological readiness and meet RTS criteria sooner.

Clinical practice and barriers among Swiss physiotherapists treating patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A survey of pre-operative rehabilitation to return to sport

OBJECTIVES

To investigate current clinical practice of Swiss physiotherapists treating patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) from pre-operative rehabilitation until return to sport (RTS). We assessed optimisation strategies in daily practice and the perceived barriers to these optimisations, and evaluated whether there was a relevant difference in clinical practice for physiotherapists with post-graduate certification in sports physiotherapy or deep clinical experience and those without such experience.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

Online survey platform.

PARTICIPANTS

Swiss physiotherapists.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The survey comprised six sections: participant information, pre-operative rehabilitation, post-operative rehabilitation, RTS, re-injury prevention, and optimisation strategies and barriers.

RESULTS

A minority of physiotherapists treated ACLR patients pre-operatively. Overall, 91% included quadriceps open kinetic chain exercise in their treatment, 37% used patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) and 39% considered psychological criteria when making decisions about RTS. Most physiotherapists (67%) felt limited due to the time available, the number of prescriptions and the tariffication system.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights areas within ACLR rehabilitation practice in Switzerland that could be improve. Improvements in understanding of the barriers to implementation of best evidence in practice and a redefinition of the clinical process around ACLR rehabilitation in Switzerland are necessary.

Comparison of Improvement in Patient-Reported Knee Function After Revision and Multiple-Revision ACL Reconstruction Compared With Primary ACL Reconstruction

Background

Graft failure after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a debilitating complication often requiring revision surgery. It is widely agreed upon that functional knee outcomes after revision ACLR (r-ACLR) are inferior compared with those after primary reconstruction. However, data are scarce on outcomes after multiple-revision ACLR (mr-ACLR).

Purpose

To compare patient-reported knee function in terms of Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively after primary ACLR, r-ACLR, and mr-ACLR and evaluate the pre- to postoperative improvement in KOOS scores for each procedure.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Patients from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry who underwent their index ACLR between 2005 and 2020 with a minimum age of 15 years at the time of surgery were included in this study. All patients had pre- and postoperative KOOS data. The 1-year postoperative KOOS and the pre- to postoperative changes in KOOS were assessed between patients who underwent primary ACLR and those who underwent subsequent r-ACLR and mr-ACLR.

Results

Of 20,542 included patients, 19,769 (96.2%) underwent primary ACLR, 760 (3.7%) underwent r-ACLR, and 13 (0.06%) underwent mr-ACLR. Patients who underwent r-ACLR had significantly smaller pre- to postoperative changes on all KOOS subscales compared with patients undergoing primary ACLR (P < .0001 for all). Furthermore, patients in the mr-ACLR group had significantly smaller changes in the KOOS-Pain subscale compared with patients in the r-ACLR group (-9 ± 23.3 vs 2.5 ± 18; P = .024).

Conclusion

The study results indicated that while improvement is seen after primary ACLR, r-ACLR, and mr-ACLR, the greatest improvement in functional outcomes is observed after primary ACLR. Patients who underwent at least 1 r-ACLR, specifically mr-ACLR, had lower postoperative outcome scores, indicating that primary ACLR may provide the best chance for recovery after ACL injury.

Management of anterior cruciate ligament revision in adults: the 2022 ESSKA consensus: part II-surgical strategy

PURPOSE

The aim of this ESSKA consensus is to give recommendations based on scientific evidence and expert opinion to improve the diagnosis, preoperative planning, indication and surgical strategy in Anterior Cruciate Ligament revision.

METHODS

Part 2, presented herein, followed exactly the same methodology as Part 1: the so-called ESSKA formal consensus derived from the Delphi method. Eighteen questions were ultimately asked. The quality of the answers received the following grades of recommendation: Grade A (high level scientific support), Grade B (scientific presumption), Grade C (low level scientific support) or Grade D (expert opinion). All answers were scored from 1 to 9 by the raters. Once a general consensus had been reached between the steering and rating groups, the question-answer sets were submitted to the peer-review group. A final combined meeting of all the members of the consensus was then held to ratify the document.

RESULTS

The review of the literature revealed a rather low scientific quality of studies examining the surgical strategy in cases of ACL reconstruction failure. Of the 18 questions, only 1 received a Grade A rating; 5, a Grade B rating; and 9, grades of C or D. The three remaining complex questions received further evaluations for each portion of the question and were looked at in more detail for the following grades: B and D; A, C and D; or A, B, C and D. The mean rating of all questions by the rating group was 8.0 + - 1.1. The questions and recommendations are listed in the article.

CONCLUSION

ACL revision surgery, especially the surgical strategy, is a widely debated subject with many different opinions and techniques. The literature reveals a poor level of standardization. Therefore, this international European consensus project is of great importance and clinical relevance for guiding the management of ACL revision in adults.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Management of anterior cruciate ligament revision in adults: the 2022 ESSKA consensus part I-diagnostics and preoperative planning

PURPOSE

The aim of this ESSKA consensus is to give recommendations based on evidence and expert opinion to improve diagnosis, preoperative planning, indication and surgical strategy in ACL revision.

METHODS

The European expert surgeons and scientists were divided into four groups to participate in this consensus. A "literature group" (four surgeons); "steering group" (14 surgeons and scientists); "rating group" (19 surgeons) and finally "peer review group" (51 representatives of the ESSKA-affiliated national societies from 27 countries). The steering group prepared eighteen question-answer sets. The quality of the answers received grades of recommendation ranging from A (high-level scientific support), to B (scientific presumption), C (low level scientific support) or D (expert opinion). These question-answer sets were then evaluated by the rating group. All answers were scored from 1 to 9. The comments of the rating group were incorporated by the steering group and the consensus was submitted to the rating group a second time. Once a general consensus was reached between the steering and rating groups, the question-answer sets were submitted to the peer review group. A final combined meeting of all the members of the consensus was held to ratify the document.

RESULTS

The literature review for the diagnosis and preoperative planning of ACL revision revealed a rather low scientific quality. None of the 18 questions was graded A and six received a grade B. The mean rating of all the questions by the rating group was 8.4 ± 0.3. The questions and recommendations are listed below.

CONCLUSION

ACL revision surgery is a widely debated subject with many different opinions and techniques. The literature reveals a poor level of standardisation. Therefore, this international consensus project is of great importance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Self-reported knee function and activity level are reduced after primary or additional anterior cruciate ligament injury in female football players: a five-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Playing football involves a high risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and these may affect knee function and activity level.

OBJECTIVES

To measure changes in self-reported knee function, activity level, and satisfaction with knee function and activity level in female football players with or without an ACL-reconstructed knee.

METHODS

Female football players, age 19.9 (SD 2.6) years, with either a primary ACL-reconstruction 1.6 (SD 0.7) years after ACL-reconstruction (n = 186) or no ACL injury (n = 113) were followed prospectively for five years. Self-reported data collected at baseline and follow-up included knee function (International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form [IKDC-SKF]), activity level (Tegner Activity Scale), and satisfaction with knee function (Likert scale 1=happy; 7=unhappy) and activity level (1-10 scale). Information on any new ACL injury during the follow-up period was collected.

RESULTS

Players with ACL-reconstruction at baseline who either did (n = 56) or did not (n = 130) sustain an additional ACL injury, and players with no injury at baseline who remained injury free (n = 101) had a lower Tegner score at follow-up. Players with additional ACL injury had lower IKDC-SKF score (mean difference: -11.4, 95% CI: -16.0, -6.7), and satisfaction with activity level (mean difference: -1.5, 95% CI: -2.3, -0.7) at follow-up. Players with no additional ACL injury had higher satisfaction with knee function (mean difference: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.3, 0.9) at follow-up. Players with no ACL injury had lower satisfaction with activity level (mean difference: -0.7, 95% CI: -1.1, -0.3) at follow-up. Players with additional ACL injury had larger decreases in all variables measured compared to the two other groups.

CONCLUSION

Primary, and even more so additional, ACL injuries decreased self-reported knee function, activity level, and satisfaction with knee function and activity level in female football players.

Management of anterior cruciate ligament revision in adults: the 2022 ESSKA consensus part III-indications for different clinical scenarios using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method

PURPOSE

The aim of the ESSKA 2022 consensus Part III was to develop patient-focused, contemporary, evidence-based, guidelines on the indications for revision anterior cruciate ligament surgery (ACLRev).

METHODS

The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method (RAM) was used to provide recommendations on the appropriateness of surgical treatment versus conservative treatment in different clinical scenarios based on current scientific evidence in conjunction with expert opinion. A core panel defined the clinical scenarios with a moderator and then guided a panel of 17 voting experts through the RAM tasks. Through a two-step voting process, the panel established a consensus as to the appropriateness of ACLRev for each scenario based on a nine-point Likert scale (in which a score in the range 1-3 was considered 'inappropriate', 4-6 'uncertain', and 7-9 'appropriate').

RESULTS

The criteria used to define the scenarios were: age (18-35 years vs 36-50 years vs 51-60 years), sports activity and expectation (Tegner 0-3 vs 4-6 vs 7-10), instability symptoms (yes vs no), meniscus status (functional vs repairable vs non-functional meniscus), and osteoarthritis (OA) (Kellgren-Lawrence [KL] grade 0-I-II vs grade III). Based on these variables, a set of 108 clinical scenarios was developed. ACLRev was considered appropriate in 58%, inappropriate in 12% (meaning conservative treatment is indicated), and uncertain in 30%. Experts considered ACLRev appropriate for patients with instability symptoms, aged ≤ 50 years, regardless of sports activity level, meniscus status, and OA grade. Results were much more controversial in patients without instability symptoms, while higher inappropriateness was related to scenarios with older age (51-60 years), low sporting expectation, non-functional meniscus, and knee OA (KL III).

CONCLUSION

This expert consensus establishes guidelines as to the appropriateness of ACLRev based on defined criteria and provides a useful reference for clinical practice in determining treatment indications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

The Effect of Staged Versus Usual Care Physiotherapy on Knee Function Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

CONTEXT

The long duration and high cost of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) rehabilitation can pose barriers to completing rehabilitation, the latter stages of which progress to demanding sport-specific exercises critical for a safe return to sport. A staged approach shifting in-person physiotherapy sessions to later months of recovery may ensure patients undergo the sport-specific portion of ACLR rehabilitation. Design/Objective: To compare postoperative outcomes of knee function in patients participating in a staged ACLR physiotherapy program to patients participating in usual care physiotherapy through a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

One hundred sixty-two patients were randomized to participate in staged (n = 80) or usual care physiotherapy (n = 82) following ACLR and assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. The staged group completed the ACLR rehabilitation protocol at home for the first 3 months, followed by usual care in-person sessions. The usual care group completed in-person sessions for their entire rehabilitation. Outcome measures included the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, International Knee Documentation Committee Questionnaire, pain, range of motion, strength, and hop testing.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant between-group differences in measures of knee function at 6 months postoperative. Patients in the usual care group reported significantly higher International Knee Documentation Committee scores at 3 months postoperative (mean difference = 5.8; 95% confidence interval,  1.3 to 10.4; P = .01).

CONCLUSION

A staged approach to ACLR rehabilitation does not appear to impede knee function at 6 months postoperative but may result in worse patient reported outcomes at early follow-ups.

Indications for Surgery, Activities After Surgery, and Pain Are the Most Commonly Asked Questions in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Reconstruction

Purpose

To leverage Google's search algorithms to summarize the most commonly asked questions regarding anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and surgery.

Methods

Six terms related to ACL tear and/or surgery were searched on a clean-installed Google Chrome browser. The list of questions and their associated websites on the Google search page were extracted after multiple search iterations performed in January of 2022. Questions and websites were categorized according to Rothwell's criteria. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark criteria were used to grade website quality and transparency. Descriptive statistics were provided. χ2 and Student t-tests identified for categorical differences and differences in JAMA score, respectively (significance set at P < .05).

Results

A total of 273 unique questions associated with 204 websites were identified. The most frequently asked questions involved Indications/Management (20.2%), Specific Activities (15.8%), and Pain (10.3%). The most common websites were Medical Practice (27.9%), Academic (23.5%), and Commercial (19.5%). In Academic websites, questions regarding Specific Activities were seldom included (4.7%) whereas questions regarding Pain were frequently addressed (39.3%, P = .027). Although average JAMA score was relatively high for Academic websites, the average combined score for medical and governmental websites was lower (P < .001) than nonmedical websites.

Conclusions

The most searched questions on Google regarding ACL tears or surgery related to indications for surgery, pain, and activities postoperatively. Health information resources stemmed from Medical Practice (27.9%) followed by Academic (23.5%) and Commercial (19.5%) websites. Medical websites had lower JAMA quality scores compared with nonmedical websites.

Clinical Relevance

These findings presented may assist physicians in addressing the most frequently searched questions while also guiding their patients to greater-quality resources regarding ACL injuries and surgery.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with a biocomposite interference screw maintains graft fixation survival and improves clinical outcomes at 1 year: A multicenter prospective case series

A biocomposite interference screw with an open architecture was developed to provide a greater available surface area for bone ingrowth compared with conventional solid interference screws. We herein describe a prospective, single-cohort study conducted using this interference screw in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Sixty subjects (mean age, 34.9 years; standard deviation, 10.6) undergoing ACL repair using the biocomposite interference screw were enrolled at 3 sites in the United States. Subjects were followed preoperatively (baseline) and postoperatively at 6 months and 1 year. The primary endpoint was graft fixation survival rate at 6 months and 1 year. Secondary endpoints included graft survival (failure defined as that occurring for any reason); International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score (exam and subjective forms); Tegner Activity form; Lysholm score; and EQ (EuroQuol)-5D-5L index score and visual analogue scale. There was a 100 % rate of graft fixation survival at 6 months (54/54; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 100-100) and 1 year (50/50; 95 % CI: 100-100). One patient experienced a complete tear of the ACL 5 months following index surgery, resulting in graft survival rates of 98.1 % (53/54; 95 % CI: 94.6-100) at 6 months at 98.0 % (49/50; 95 % CI: 94.1-100) at 1 year. Significant improvements (p < .0001) were obtained between baseline and 6 months for the majority of patient-reported outcomes, and were maintained out to 1-year follow up. There was no significant difference over baseline in the IKDC sub-scale of symptoms. Nine patients (15.0 %) experienced serious adverse events during the course of the study; three of these patients' adverse events were considered possibly or definitely related to the procedure device (ACL tear, pulmonary embolism/deep vein thrombosis, and a patellar fracture). In conclusion, this biocomposite interference screw has a favorable safety and efficacy profile at 1 year, with no failures of graft fixation, noted during that time.

Clinically Relevant Subgroups Among Athletes Who Have Ruptured Their Anterior Cruciate Ligaments: A Delaware-Oslo Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To identify subgroups of individuals with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries based on patient characteristics, self-reported outcomes, and functional performance at baseline, and to associate subgroups with long-term outcomes after ACL rupture.

METHODS

A total of 293 participants (45.7% male, mean ± SD age 26.2 ± 9.4 years, days from injury 58 ± 35) were enrolled after effusion, pain, and range of motion impairments were resolved and quadriceps strength was at least 70% of the uninvolved limb. Mixture modeling was used to uncover latent subgroups without a prior group classification using probabilistic assignment. Variables include demographics, functional testing, and self-reported outcome measures. Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis (OA; i.e., Kellgren/Lawrence grade of ≥1) in the involved knee at 5 years after injury was the primary outcome of interest. Chi-square tests assessed differences in the presence of radiographic OA in the involved knee between subgroups at 5 years after ACL rupture. Secondary outcomes of interest included radiographic OA in the uninvolved knee, return to preinjury sport by 2 years, operative status, and clinical OA (classified using Luyten et al criteria) at 5 years.

RESULTS

Four distinct subgroups exist after ACL rupture (younger good self-report, younger poor self-report, older poor self-report, older good self-report) with 30%, 31%, 47%, and 53%, respectively, having involved knee OA. The percentage of radiographic OA was not significantly different between the groups (P = 0.059).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of OA in all subgroups is highly concerning. These results suggest there are unique subgroupings of individuals that may guide treatment after ACL rupture and reconstruction by providing support for developing a patient-centered approach.

Preoperative Expectations in Hand Surgery Patients

Introduction  Studies have shown a link between patients' preoperative expectations and their postoperative satisfaction. However, limited studies exist concerning patient factors associated with higher preoperative expectations in the hand surgery population. This study analyzed preoperative expectation scores of patients undergoing hand surgery and aimed to determine associated patient characteristics. Materials and Methods  A total of 418 elective hand surgery patients aged 15 years and older enrolled in a prospectively collected orthopaedic registry from June 2015 to December 2018 were analyzed. Patients were administered preoperative questionnaires including six Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System domains and other activity and pain scales. Expectation scores were measured using the six domains of the Musculoskeletal Outcomes Data Evaluation and Management System expectations questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to identify independent predictors of higher expectations. Results  Overall, patients had high expectations (≥ 80.0) of their hand surgery. Higher mean expectation scores were seen with females, college graduates, better baseline health status, and fewer prior hand surgeries ( p  < 0.05 for all). No significant associations were found among the Common Procedural Terminology codes and expectations. Multivariable analysis confirmed that college degree ( p  = 0.023) and less pain ( p  = 0.008) were predictive of higher baseline expectations. Conclusion  In sum, more educated patients with less pain at baseline and better baseline health status have higher expectations of their hand surgery. Hand surgeons can use these results to help focus their preoperative counseling and expectation management.

Preoperative predictors for return to physical activity following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR): a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Rates of return to physical activity after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery are sub-optimal. Optimising presurgical treatment may improve return rates. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify modifiable preoperative predictors for return to physical activity after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus via EBSCOhost, AMED, PsycINFO and EMBASE via OVID and Web of Science) were searched from inception to 31 March 2023. The population of focus was adults aged 18-65 who had undergone primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Studies needed to identify at least one potential modifiable preoperative predictor variable and the relationship between the predictor(s) and return to physical activity. All time-points of assessment and study designs were included. Data extraction was completed by one reviewer and verified by a second reviewer. Two reviewers completed the risk of bias assessment using the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system.

RESULTS

The search identified 2281 studies, eight met the inclusion criteria. Five studies scored 'high', and three studies scored 'moderate' risk-of-bias. All preoperative predictors were of very low-quality evidence. Five different outcome measures were used to assess return to physical activity including Tegner, Marx, Physical Activity Scale, return to play at the elite level and return to preinjury level (undefined). This was measured between 1- and 10-years post-surgery. Nine preoperative physical, six psychosocial and five demographic/clinical factors were assessed and four were found to be predictive. These included quadriceps strength, psychological profile, patient estimated ability to return and graft type (patella tendon, BPTB).

CONCLUSION

Very-low level evidence suggests that increasing quadriceps strength, managing patient expectations of their treatment outcomes, improving motivation to resume preinjury activity levels and considering the use of a BPTB graft will support return to physical activity after ACLR.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was prospectively registered in PROSPERO: CRD 42020222567.

Altered Knee Loading Following Primary ACL Repair versus ACL Reconstruction

Background

ACL repair (ACL-r) has recently gained renewed clinical interest for treatment of ACL tears. ACL-r has several potential benefits over ACL reconstruction (ACL-R) including maintaining the native ACL innervation and blood supply, no graft site morbidity, and possible improved knee biomechanics and decrease in osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to assess for differences in metrics of knee joint loading during a single limb squat task between individuals following a primary ACL-r versus those who underwent a standard ACL-R with a patella bone-tendon-bone autograft.

Study type

Case Control Study.

Methods

The ACL-r group [n: 15, age(yrs): 38.8±13.9] sustained a proximal ACL disruption that was amenable to repair, while the ACL-R group [n: 15, age(yrs): 25.60±1.7] underwent primary reconstruction with patella bone-tendon-bone autograft. At 12-weeks post-operation, both groups completed the IKDC questionnaire and biomechanical testing during performance of the single limb squat. Bilateral peak knee extension moment and total knee joint power as a measure of eccentric loading (contraction) during the descent phase of the squat were calculated on the surgical and non-surgical limb and averaged across the middle three of five trials. Participants also completed quadriceps strength testing on both limbs three months after surgery on an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/sec. LSI (Limb Strength Index) was calculated for all variables. Separate ANCOVAs were performed on each biomechanical variable to examine differences between groups.

Results

The ACL-r had a significantly greater peak knee extension moment LSI (ACL-r: 78.46±5.79%; ACL-R: 56.86±5.79%; p=0.019, ηp2=.186) and total knee joint power LSI (ACL-r: 72.47±7.39%; ACL-R: 39.70±7.39%, p=0.006, ηp2=.245) than the ACL-R group. The ACL-r also had a significantly greater quadriceps LSI than the ACL-R group (ACL-r: 66.318±4.61%, ACL-R: 48.03±4.61%, p=0.013, ηp2=.206).

Conclusions

Individuals following ACL-r demonstrate increased knee joint loading symmetry during a single leg squat task and greater quadriceps strength symmetry at 12 weeks post-surgery compared to those who underwent ACL-R.

Level of Evidence

3.

I'll be back - Predictive validity of adults' expectations for recovery after fractures - A longitudinal observational study

PURPOSE

Recovery after fractures due to accidents relates to all aspects of the biopsychosocial model. Therefore, it is difficult for the patients to foresee the consequences of the fractures. This study aimed to examine 1) patients' expectations regarding the impact of the injury on everyday life, 2) predictive validity of their expectations after six months, and 3) factors that predict a return to work.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were 18-64 years old and hospitalized with simple or compound/multiple fractures due to an accident. During admission, structured interviews were conducted with a questionnaire covering working conditions, expectations regarding recovery, sports, economy, family, household, and return to work. Additionally, mental and physical status were covered with Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire (SMFA) and Short Form 36, and working conditions were uncovered too. After six months, telephonic interviews were conducted with the 164 available patients to elucidate the impact of the fractures on everyday life, their health status, and sick leave. Likelihood ratios, post-test probabilities, and logistic regression analysis were performed to establish if patients' expectations predicted recovery, economy, sports, family, household, and return to work.

RESULTS

Few patients' baseline expectations about everyday life were met. The likelihood ratios were small, and the post-test probabilities for expectations consistent with outcomes were between 18% and 68%, with recovery as the lowest and participation in sports as the highest. In the multivariate analysis, patients' expectations did not predict short-term (less than two months) or long-term sick leave (more than three months). Self-rated health and the bother index of SMFA were significant short-term and long-term predictors for sick leave. Additionally, vitality, pain, and decision latitude at work predicted sick leave of less than two months.

CONCLUSION

A few days after the accident, patients' expectations about everyday life are not associated with outcomes six months later. Likelihood ratios indicate difficulties for the patients in predicting fractures' consequences on various aspects of everyday life. Return to work was associated with self-rated health and the bother index of SMFA. Future research should examine if fracture patients can benefit from comprehensive, individual counseling during admission to set appropriate expectations.

Criteria Used to Determine Unrestricted Return to Activity After ACL Reconstruction in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients: A Systematic Review

Background

The rates of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft failure or contralateral ACL rupture range from 17% to 30% in pediatric patients after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). A contributing factor to the high reinjury rate in this population may be the limited evidence regarding appropriate criteria for allowing unrestricted return to activity (RTA) postoperatively.

Purpose

To review the literature and identify the most commonly used criteria when determining unrestricted RTA after ACLR in pediatric patients.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

A search was performed of the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus databases using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The authors identified studies that included pediatric patients (<19 years of age) and specified the criteria used to determine RTA after ACLR.

Results

A total of 27 articles met all criteria for review, of which 13 studies only used 1 criterion when determining RTA. Objective criteria were the most common type of criteria for RTA (17 studies). Strength tests (15 studies) and hop tests (10 studies) were the most commonly used tasks when deriving RTA criteria. Only 2 studies used validated questionnaires to assess the patient's physiological readiness for RTA, and only 2 studies used an objective assessment of movement quality before RTA.

Conclusion

Only 14 of the 27 reviewed studies reported using >1 criterion when determining RTA. Furthermore, few studies used patient-reported outcome measures or lower limb kinematics as RTA criteria, indicating that more research is needed to validate these metrics in the pediatric population.

Think outside the box: Incorporating secondary cognitive tasks into return to sport testing after ACL reconstruction

The optimal set of return to sport (RTS) tests after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and ACL reconstruction (ACLR) remains elusive. Many athletes fail to pass current RTS test batteries, fail to RTS, or sustain secondary ACL injuries if they do RTS. The purpose of this review is to summarize current literature regarding functional RTS testing after ACLR and to encourage clinicians to have patients "think" (add a secondary cognitive task) outside the "box" (in reference to the box used during the drop vertical jump task) when performing functional RTS tests. We review important criteria for functional tests in RTS testing, including task-specificity and measurability. Firstly, tests should replicate the sport-specific demands the athlete will encounter when they RTS. Many ACL injuries occur when the athlete is performing a dual cognitive-motor task (e.g., attending to an opponent while performing a cutting maneuver). However, most functional RTS tests do not incorporate a secondary cognitive load. Secondly, tests should be measurable, both through the athlete's ability to complete the task safely (through biomechanical analyses) and efficiently (through measures of performance). We highlight and critically examine three examples of functional tests that are commonly used for RTS testing: the drop vertical jump, single-leg hop tests, and cutting tasks. We discuss how biomechanics and performance can be measured during these tasks, including the relationship these variables may have with injury. We then discuss how cognitive demands can be added to these tasks, and how these demands influence both biomechanics and performance. Lastly, we provide clinicians with practical recommendations on how to implement secondary cognitive tasks into functional testing and how to assess athletes' biomechanics and performance.

A comparison of preoperative scores prior to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with optimal preinjury scores and final scores at two-year follow up

AIMS

The aim of this study was to compare the preinjury functional scores with the postinjury preoperative score and postoperative outcome scores following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery (ACLR).

METHODS

We performed a prospective study on patients who underwent primary ACLR by a single surgeon at a single centre between October 2010 and January 2018. Preoperative preinjury scores were collected at time of first assessment after the index injury. Preoperative (pre- and post-injury), one-year, and two-year postoperative functional outcomes were assessed by using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm Knee Score, and Tegner Activity Scale.

RESULTS

We enrolled 308 males and 263 females of mean age 27 years (19 to 46). The mean preinjury and preoperative post-injury Lysholm Knee Scores were 94 (73 to 100) and 63 (25 to 85), respectively, while the respective mean scores at one and two years postoperatively were 84 (71 to 100) and 89 (71 to 100; p < 0.001). The mean Tegner preinjury and preoperative post-injury scores were 7 (3 to 9) and 3 (0 to 6), respectively, while the respective mean scores at one and two years postoperatively were 6 (1 to 8) and 6 (1 to 9) (p < 0.001). The mean KOOS scores at preinjury versus two years postoperatively were: symptoms (96 vs 84); pain (94 vs 87); activities of daily living (97 vs 91), sports and recreation function (84 vs 71), and quality of life (82 vs 69), respectively (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Functional scores improved following ACLR surgery at two years in comparison to preoperative post-injury scores. However, at two-year follow-up, the majority of patients failed to achieve their preinjury scores. The evaluation of ACLR outcomes needs to consider the preinjury scores rather than the immediate preoperative score that is usually collected.Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(1):46-52.

Revision Soft-Tissue Allograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Is Associated With Lower Patient-Reported Outcomes Compared With Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Patients Aged 40 and Older

PURPOSE

To evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and graft failure rates in revision allograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in patients aged 40 and older and compare them with primary ACLRs.

METHODS

Patients aged 40 and older who underwent arthroscopic soft-tissue allograft ACLR between 2005 and 2016 with a minimum 2-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were grouped based on revision versus primary ACLR. The rate of achieving an International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) score was recorded. Patient satisfaction, PROs, and graft failure were compared between groups using the χ² test, Fisher exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

We identified 32 patients who underwent revision ACLR and 201 patients who underwent primary ACLR aged 40 and older who met inclusion criteria with a mean follow-up of 6.2 and 6.9 years, respectively (P = .042). There was a lower rate of concomitant meniscal repair in the primary ACLR group (6% vs 21.9%, P = .007) There were no other differences in chondral injuries, mechanism of injury, or meniscal injuries between groups. The median IKDC score was greater in the primary ACLR group as compared with the revision ACLR group (83.9 vs 70.6, P < .001). Patients who underwent revision ACLR were less likely to achieve the IKDC PASS threshold (82.5% vs 56.3%, P = .001) and were less likely to report satisfaction as compared with patients who underwent primary ACLR (90.5% vs 78.1%, P =.038). No difference in graft failure rates was identified between groups (8% vs 15.6%, P = .180).

CONCLUSIONS

Revision allograft ACLR in patients aged 40 and older was associated with lower PROs compared with primary ACLR. Patients who underwent revision ACLR failed to meet the IKDC PASS threshold more often and were dissatisfied with procedure results more than twice as often as patients that underwent primary ACLR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective cohort study.

Editorial Commentary: Autograft, Early Surgery, 2-Stage Surgery for 1 cm of Tunnel Widening or Greater, and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction or Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis May Improve Outcomes of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Revision Surgery

Revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a challenging procedure. Results are less satisfactory than those of primary ACLR owing to bone defects, altered anatomic landmarks, and concomitant injuries. Modifiable factors such as autograft, early surgery, 2-stage surgery for 1 cm of tunnel widening or greater, and anterolateral ligament reconstruction or lateral extra-articular tenodesis may improve outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament revision surgery. Finally, it is important to consider patients' expectations after revision ACLR when counseling patients and making surgical decisions.

OPTIKNEE 2022: consensus recommendations to optimise knee health after traumatic knee injury to prevent osteoarthritis

The goal of the OPTIKNEE consensus is to improve knee and overall health, to prevent osteoarthritis (OA) after a traumatic knee injury. The consensus followed a seven-step hybrid process. Expert groups conducted 7 systematic reviews to synthesise the current evidence and inform recommendations on the burden of knee injuries; risk factors for post-traumatic knee OA; rehabilitation to prevent post-traumatic knee OA; and patient-reported outcomes, muscle function and functional performance tests to monitor people at risk of post-traumatic knee OA. Draft consensus definitions, and clinical and research recommendations were generated, iteratively refined, and discussed at 6, tri-weekly, 2-hour videoconferencing meetings. After each meeting, items were finalised before the expert group (n=36) rated the level of appropriateness for each using a 9-point Likert scale, and recorded dissenting viewpoints through an anonymous online survey. Seven definitions, and 8 clinical recommendations (who to target, what to target and when, rehabilitation approach and interventions, what outcomes to monitor and how) and 6 research recommendations (research priorities, study design considerations, what outcomes to monitor and how) were voted on. All definitions and recommendations were rated appropriate (median appropriateness scores of 7–9) except for two subcomponents of one clinical recommendation, which were rated uncertain (median appropriateness score of 4.5–5.5). Varying levels of evidence supported each recommendation. Clinicians, patients, researchers and other stakeholders may use the definitions and recommendations to advocate for, guide, develop, test and implement person-centred evidence-based rehabilitation programmes following traumatic knee injury, and facilitate data synthesis to reduce the burden of knee post-traumatic knee OA.

Environmental Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis: The Impact on Individuals with Knee Joint Injury

Osteoarthritis is a debilitating chronic condition involving joint degeneration, impacting over 300 million people worldwide. This places a high social and economic burden on society. The knee is the most common joint impacted by osteoarthritis. A common cause of osteoarthritis is traumatic joint injury, specifically injury to the anterior cruciate ligament. The purpose of this review is to detail the non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors for osteoarthritis with particular focus on individuals after anterior cruciate ligament injury. After reading this, health care providers will better comprehend the wide variety of factors linked to osteoarthritis.

Range of Motion, Strength, and Function After ACL Reconstruction Using a Contralateral Patellar Tendon Graft

BACKGROUND

Regaining preinjury levels of activity and progressing rehabilitation factors after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction have shown mixed results.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the timing and rate of return for knee range of motion (ROM), stability, strength, and subjective scores after ACL reconstruction with contralateral patellar tendon graft (PTG).

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Included were 2148 patients (1238 male patients, 910 female patients) who underwent primary ACL reconstruction with a contralateral PTG between 1995 and 2017 and had complete objective data through 3 months of follow-up. All patients participated in a rehabilitation program specific to goals for each knee. Patients were evaluated objectively with goniometric measurement of ROM, isokinetic quadriceps strength testing, and laxity with a KT-2000 arthrometer. Subjective data were collected at 2 and 5 years.

RESULTS

Normal extension on the reconstructed knee was attained for 95% of patients at 1 week postoperatively; normal flexion on the reconstructed knee was reached by 77% of patients by 3 months. At 3 months postoperatively, mean limb symmetry index strength was 104%, and the strength on the ACL-reconstructed and graft-donor knees was 87% and 86% of their respective preoperative strength. Mean manual maximum side-to-side difference in laxity was 2.0 mm at 1 month. Most patients (90%) returned to level 8 sports or higher and did so at an average of 5.7 months. Mean International Knee Documentation Committee scores for the ACL-reconstructed and graft-donor knees were 89 and 91 at 2 years (n = 1015 patients) and 84 and 90 at 5 years (n = 1275 patients), respectively. Mean Cincinnati Knee Rating Scale scores for the ACL-reconstructed and graft-donor knees were 92 and 96 at 2 years (n = 1184) and 88 and 94 at 5 years (n = 1236), respectively.

CONCLUSION

For patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with a contralateral PTG, postoperative ROM and strength were restored quickly by splitting the rehabilitation into different goals between the two knees. Using a contralateral PTG, this structured rehabilitation plan can lead to a relatively quick return to sport and good subjective long-term outcomes.

Analysis of Factors That Influence Patient Satisfaction After Periacetabular Osteotomy: An Asian Cohort Study

Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is an effective joint-preserving procedure for developmental dysplasia of the hip. However, some patients report dissatisfaction after PAO. Because patient satisfaction is increasingly used as a health care quality metric, it is important to gain a better understanding of factors associated with patient satisfaction after PAO. The goal of this study was to investigate patient satisfaction among a cohort of Asian patients undergoing PAO. This study included 227 Asian patients who had undergone PAO at our institution between 1998 and 2016. The study participants completed a questionnaire assessing patient satisfaction, reasons for dissatisfaction, and postoperative Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), activity scale score. Based on their satisfaction levels, the participants were divided into 4 subgroups, and their demographic characteristics and postoperative patient-reported outcomes were compared. Of the 227 patients, 190 expressed satisfaction that correlated with OHS-pain, OHD-activities of daily living, and UCLA activity scale scores. Primary reasons for dissatisfaction after PAO were persistent pain (24 of 49, 49%), functional limitations (14 of 49, 29%), stiffness around the hip (4 of 49, 8%), unmet expectations (4 of 49, 8%), conversion to total hip arthroplasty (2 of 49, 4%), and complications (1 of 49, 2%). Multivariate analysis showed that preoperative Kellgren-Lawrence grades 1 and 3 were the significant predictive factors for satisfaction and dissatisfaction, respectively. The potential for lower patient satisfaction associated with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 because of persistent pain and functional limitations postoperatively suggests that consideration of preoperative severity of osteoarthritis could enhance patient satisfaction after PAO. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(5):297-303.].

Interventions for increasing return to sport rates after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery: A systematic review

Background

An injury followed by surgery poses many challenges to an athlete, one of which is rehabilitation, with the goal of returning to sport. While total restoration of physical abilities is a primary goal for most athletes, psychosocial factors also play an important role in the success of an athlete's return to sport (RTS). The purpose of this review was to examine the effectiveness of exercise and psychosocial interventions on RTS rates, which might be one of the most important outcomes for elite athletes.

Methods

To carry out this review, PubMed, SAGE Journals, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases were searched from inception to July 2022. The inclusion criteria consisted exercise or psychosocial intervention for athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), with reporting RTS rates as an outcome.

Results

From 1032 identified articles, four reports (N = 130) met inclusion criteria, all of which examined the recovery after ACLR. The mean MINORS score for the included studies was 16.3 ± 6.1, of which non-comparative studies scored 11.0 ± 1.4, while comparative studies scored 21.5 ± 0.7. There were consistent findings for benefits of exercise and psychosocial interventions on RTS rates. Return to preinjury rates in the reviewed studies vary between 63 and 95% with lower % observed in female athletes and with shorter follow-up. Interventional studies reporting RTS rates with a larger sample size and longer follow-up are needed.

Conclusion

Physical and psychological function, as well as social support can be influenced by appropriate interventions, indicating future work on rehabilitation programs for return to preinjury might consider taking the holistic approach addressing those.

A Psychological Support Intervention to Help Injured Athletes “Get Back in the Game”: Design and Development Study

Background

After a serious knee injury, up to half of athletes do not return to competitive sport, despite recovering sufficient physical function. Athletes often desire psychological support for the return to sport, but rehabilitation clinicians feel ill-equipped to deliver adequate support.

Objective

We aimed to design and develop an internet-delivered psychological support program for athletes recovering from knee ligament surgery.

Methods

Our work for developing and designing the Back in the Game intervention was guided by a blend of theory-, evidence-, and target population–based strategies for developing complex interventions. We systematically searched for qualitative evidence related to athletes’ experiences with, perspectives on, and needs for recovery and return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Two reviewers coded and synthesized the results via thematic meta-synthesis. We systematically searched for randomized controlled trials reporting on psychological support interventions for improving ACL rehabilitation outcomes in athletes. One reviewer extracted the data, including effect estimates; a second reviewer checked the data for accuracy. The results were synthesized descriptively. We conducted feasibility testing in two phases—(1) technical assessment and (2) feasibility and usability testing. For phase 1, we recruited clinicians and people with lived experience of ACL injury. For phase 2, we recruited patients aged between 15 and 30 years who were within 8 weeks of ACL reconstruction surgery. Participants completed a 10-week version of the intervention and semistructured interviews for evaluating acceptability, demand, practicality, and integration. This project was approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (approval number: 2018/45-31).

Results

The following three analytic themes emerged from the meta-synthesis (studies: n=16; participants: n=164): (1) tools or strategies for supporting rehabilitation progress, (2) barriers and facilitators for the physical readiness to return to sport, and (3) barriers and facilitators for the psychological readiness to return to sport. Coping strategies, relaxation, and goal setting may have a positive effect on rehabilitation outcomes after ACL reconstruction (randomized controlled trials: n=7; participants: n=430). There were no trials of psychological support interventions for improving the return to sport. Eleven people completed phase 1 of feasibility testing (technical assessment) and identified 4 types of software errors, which we fixed. Six participants completed the feasibility and usability testing phase. Their feedback suggested that the intervention was easy to access and addressed the needs of athletes who want to return to sport after ACL reconstruction. We refined the intervention to include more multimedia content and support access to and the use of the intervention features.

Conclusions

The Back in the Game intervention is a 24-week, internet-delivered, self-guided program that comprises 7 modules that complement usual rehabilitation, changes focus as rehabilitation progresses, is easy to access and use, and includes different psychological support strategies.

Return to sports after ACL injury 5 years from now: 10 things we must do

Background

The outcome after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is in general disappointing with unacceptable number of athletes that do not return to pre-injury level of sports, high re-injury rates, early development of osteoarthritis and shorter careers. Athletes after ACLR have high expectation to return to sports which is in contrast with the current outcomes. The aim of this manuscript is to present an overview of factors that are needed to be incorporated and to personalize the rehabilitation process for an athlete who has undergone an ACLR.

Level of evidence

4.

Cross-sectional study on relationships between physical function and psychological readiness to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Information about specific factors of physical function that contribute to psychological readiness is needed to plan rehabilitation for a return to sports. The purpose of this study was to identify specific physical functions related to the psychological readiness of patients aiming to return to sports 6 months after reconstruction. We hypothesized that the knee strength is a factor related to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI) cutoff score for a return to sports.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. Fifty-four patients who had undergone primary reconstruction using hamstring tendon participated in this study. Psychological readiness was measured using the ACL-RSI in patients at 6 months after reconstruction. To identify specific physical functions related to the ACL-RSI score, participants were divided into groups with ACL-RSI scores of ≥ 60 or < 60. Non-paired t-tests or the Mann-Whitney test were performed to analyze group differences in objective variables in physical function: (1) knee strength in both legs; (2) leg anterior reach distance on both sides; and (3) single-leg hop (SLH) distances in three directions for both legs.

RESULTS

Significant differences between groups were identified in knee flexion strength (60°/s) for the uninvolved limb, hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio (60°/s) for the uninvolved limb, knee flexion strength (180°/s) for the involved limb, limb symmetry index (LSI) of leg anterior reach distance, the ratio of the distance to the height of the patient and LSI of SLH distances in lateral and medial directions.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that at 6 months after reconstruction, increased knee flexion strength (ratio of peak torque measured to body mass of the patient), hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio, leg anterior reach distance LSI, and lateral and medial SLH appear important to exceed the ACL-RSI cutoff for a return to sports. The present results may be useful for planning post-operative rehabilitation for long-term return to sports after reconstruction.

Online information about the management of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures in Australia: A content analysis

BACKGROUND

Most people who suffer an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury search for information online.

OBJECTIVES

Summarise the proportion of webpages on ACL rupture management that present evidence-based information.

DESIGN

Content analysis.

METHODS

We examined webpage information on ACL ruptures identified through (1) Google searches using terms synonymous with 'anterior cruciate ligament rupture' and searching 'knee surgeon' linked to each Australian capital city, and (2) websites of professional associations. The primary outcome was the proportion of webpages that suggest people can return to at least some form of sport with non-surgical management. Secondary outcomes included webpage information on return to sport with ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and non-surgical management, benefits, harms, and risk of osteoarthritis related to these options, and activity modification.

RESULTS

Out of 115 webpages analysed, 48% suggested people can return to at least some form of sport with non-surgical management. Almost half of webpages suggested most people will return to some form of sport following ACLR (41%) and mentioned benefits of ACLR (43%). Fewer webpages mentioned benefits of non-surgical management (14%), approximately two in three people return to pre-injury level of sport following ACLR (4%), risk of re-injury following ACLR (23%), most people return to sport within 9 months of ACLR (27%), activity modification as a management approach (20%), and ACLR will reduce the risk of osteoarthritis (23%).

CONCLUSION

Most online information on ACL rupture management isn't aligned with the best available evidence. Inaccurate information could mislead patients' treatment choices and create unrealistic expectations for return to sport.

Biopsychosocial Factors Associated With Return to Preinjury Sport After ACL Injury Treated Without Reconstruction: NACOX Cohort Study 12-Month Follow-up

BACKGROUND

The limited research on prognosis after nonsurgical management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has focused on physical factors. We aimed to assess relationships between key patient-reported outcomes, in line with a biopsychosocial approach, and returning to preinjury sport at 12 months after ACL injury treated without reconstruction.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that biopsychosocial factors would be associated with returning to preinjury sport at 12 months after ACL injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective single cohort study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2.

METHODS

Patients who had an ACL injury and did not have reconstruction during the first year after injury were recruited from healthcare clinics in Sweden, and followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months after injury. Return to preinjury sport at 12 months was the primary outcome. Explanatory variables were psychological readiness to return to sport, knee-related quality of life, and self-reported knee function. Using generalized estimating equations, we evaluated the relationships between the explanatory variables and the primary outcome at each timepoint.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed for 88 participants with a median age of 27 years (15-40 years). Soccer was the most frequently reported preinjury sport (n = 22). Forty participants (46%) had returned to their preinjury sport at 12 months after ACL injury. The odds of returning to preinjury sport at 12 months increased with higher self-reported knee function at 6 months (odds ratio [OR], 1.1; 95% CI, 1.0-1.1), and the odds of being returned to the preinjury sport at 12 months doubled for every 1-point increase (1-10 scale) in psychological readiness to return to sport measured at 12 months (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.2-3.2).

CONCLUSION

Superior self-reported knee function at 6 months and greater psychological readiness to return to sport at 12 months were associated with returning to the preinjury sport 1 year after ACL injury treated without reconstruction.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Consider highlighting the relevance of biopsychosocial factors to returning to preinjury sport after ACL injury when discussing prognosis during shared decision-making.

Have We Forgotten Our Patient? An Exploration of Patient Experiences After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Limited information is available on the experiences of patients during rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

AIM

The current study aimed to identify factors that differentiated positive and negative patient experiences during rehabilitation after ACLR.

METHOD AND DESIGN

A survey-based study with an online platform was used to identify factors that differentiated positive and negative patient experiences during rehabilitation after ACLR. Seventy-two patients (age 27.8 [8.8] y) after ACLR participated. Data were analyzed and themes were identified by comparing categories and subcategories on similarity.

MAIN FINDINGS

Positive patient experiences were room for own input, supervision, attention, knowledge, honesty, and professionalism of the physiotherapist. Additionally, a varied and structured rehabilitation program, adequate facilities, and contact with other patients were identified as positive patient experiences. Negative experiences were a lack of attention, lack of professionalism of the physiotherapists, a lack of sport-specific field training, a lack of goal setting, a lack of adequate facilities, and health insurance costs.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study identified factors that differentiated positive and negative patient experiences during rehabilitation after ACLR. These findings can help physiotherapists in understanding the patient experiences during rehabilitation after ACLR.