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Kamei G, Nekomoto A, Nakata K, Tsuji S, Hashiguchi N, Nakamae A, Ishikawa M, Adachi N. The posterior condyle grows in the direction of the increasing posterior condylar offset and the inclination angle of the ACL changes accordingly. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2024. [PMID: 39049523 DOI: 10.1002/ksa.12380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to reveal the changes in the shape of the posterior femoral condyle and the morphology of the ACL, both before and after epiphyseal closure. The hypothesis of this study is that the morphological change of the posterior femoral condyle and that of the ACL may be correlated to some extent. METHODS Eighty-one patients who underwent surgery for the knee joint (meniscal repair, arthroscopic synovectomy, medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction) between 2016 and 2021 were included in this study, 48 patients aged 13 years or under (before epiphysis closure; mean age: 10.9 (range: 7-13) and 33 patients aged over 18 years or over (after epiphysis closure; mean age: 21.7 (range: 18-30). The shape of the posterior femoral condyle was evaluated via lateral view radiographs, and the morphology of the ACL was measured via sagittal and coronal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. RESULTS The morphology of the posterior condyle in the lateral view radiograph in patients aged 13 and under was larger in the direction of the short axis of the femur compared with that in those aged 18 and over (p < 0.001). The mean value of the inclination angle of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the sagittal plane was significantly smaller in patients aged 13 and under (41.7° ± 3.7) than in those aged 18 and over (48.5° ± 4.2) (p < 0.001). The mean values of the inclination angle of the ACL in the coronal plane were significantly smaller in patients aged 13 and under (55.7° ± 6.4) than in those aged 18 and over (63.4° ± 4.4) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This study evaluates and compares the shape of the posterior femoral condyle and the morphology of the ACL fiber before and after epiphyseal closure. The posterior femoral condyle grew posteriorly rather than longitudinally, and the inclination of the ACL fibers was thought to change accordingly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level Ⅲ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goki Kamei
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akinori Nekomoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kyohei Nakata
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shunya Tsuji
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naofumi Hashiguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Atsuo Nakamae
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masakazu Ishikawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuo Adachi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Herdea A, Dragomirescu MC, Burcan V, Ulici A. Pediatric ACL Reconstruction in Children-An Evaluation of the Transphyseal Technique's Efficacy and Safety. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:545. [PMID: 38790540 PMCID: PMC11119618 DOI: 10.3390/children11050545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Injuries of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are commonly found in the general population, both among adult and pediatric patients, and their incidence has been increasing in recent years. Most of the late literature agrees that surgical reconstruction of the ACL is effective in improving long-term outcomes in pediatric patients, while others in the past have pleaded for non-surgical management. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS Our study aims to verify if ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using transphyseal technique in skeletally immature patients will provide angular deviations or growth restrictions. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study; Level of evidence 4. METHODS We perfomed a retrospective study to verify if transphyseal ACLR in children with less than or equal to 2 years of remaining growth leads to either limb length discrepancies or axis deviations. RESULTS Most patients who were treated using transphyseal technique showed significant improvements in their functional scores. There were statistically significant differences in lateral distal femoral angles (LDFA) and medial proximal tibial angles (MPTA), with no clinical impact. There was no significant limb length discrepancy (LLD) during the 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Transphyseal ACLR is safe among children who have less than or equal to 2 years of remaining growth and brings no risk of axis deviations or limb length discrepancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Herdea
- 11th Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari Nr. 8, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pediatric Orthopedics Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Children’s Emergency Hospital, 011743 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-C.D.); (V.B.)
| | - Mihai-Codrut Dragomirescu
- Pediatric Orthopedics Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Children’s Emergency Hospital, 011743 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-C.D.); (V.B.)
| | - Valentin Burcan
- Pediatric Orthopedics Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Children’s Emergency Hospital, 011743 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-C.D.); (V.B.)
| | - Alexandru Ulici
- 11th Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bd. Eroii Sanitari Nr. 8, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- Pediatric Orthopedics Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Children’s Emergency Hospital, 011743 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-C.D.); (V.B.)
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Thompson JD, Howe D, Griffith EH, Fisher MB. Neo-Natal Castration Leads to Subtle Differences in Porcine Anterior Cruciate Ligament Morphology and Function in Adolescence. J Biomech Eng 2024; 146:011002. [PMID: 37831117 PMCID: PMC10680984 DOI: 10.1115/1.4063744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Female adolescent athletes are at a higher risk of tearing their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than male counterparts. While most work related to hormones has focused on the effects of estrogen to understand the increased risk of ACL injury, there are other understudied factors, including testosterone. The purpose of this study was to determine how surgical castration in the male porcine model influences ACL size and function across skeletal growth. Thirty-six male Yorkshire crossbreed pigs were raised to 3 (juvenile), 4.5 (early adolescent), and 6 months (adolescent) of age. Animals were either castrated (barrows) within 2 weeks after birth or were left intact (boars). Posteuthanasia, joint and ACL size were assessed via MRI, and biomechanics were assessed via a robotic testing system. Joint size increased throughout age, yet barrows had smaller joints than boars. ACL cross-sectional area (CSA), length, volume, and in situ stiffness increased with age, as did the percent contribution of the ACL anteromedial (AM) bundle to resisting loads. Boar ACL, AM bundle, and PL bundle volumes were 19%, 25%, and 15% larger than barrows across ages. However, ACL CSA, in situ stiffness, and bundle contribution were similar between boars and barrows. The barrows had smaller temporal increases in AM bundle function than boars, but these data were highly variable. Early and sustained loss in testosterone leads to subtle differences in ACL morphology but may not influence measures associated with increased injury risk, such as CSA or bundle forces in response to applied loads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D. Thompson
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Danielle Howe
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Emily H. Griffith
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Matthew B. Fisher
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 4130 Engineering Building III, 1840 Entrepreneur Drive, CB 7115, Raleigh, NC 27695; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695; Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
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Xiao Y, Tang H, Wu Y, Meng J, Liu W, Gao S. How to predict the dimensions of anterior cruciate ligament in children based on MRI? Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35028. [PMID: 37960762 PMCID: PMC10637532 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There are many studies examining the dimensions of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in children. The correlations between the ACL size in children and other parameters are not well understood. To detect the correlations between the ACL size in children and other parameters including age, gender, bone and soft tissue parameters through measurements on MRI images, and to establish prediction models for the ACL size. A total of 99 patients who underwent MRI scan were included (39 girls, 60 boys; mean age, 13.01 ± 3.94; range of age, 4 to 18). The following measurements were taken on MRI images by 2 observers: ACL length, ACL width, posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) length, the distance from the most anterior aspect of the tibial epiphysis to the anterior aspect of the ACL tibial insertion (AATI), the distance from the most anterior aspect of the tibial epiphysis to the posterior aspect of the ACL tibial insertion (APTI), and the tibial anteroposterior diameter (AP). Correlations between these measurements and the patients' gender and age were investigated, and univariate and multiple linear regression models were established accordingly. Before 13 years old, the ACL length was significantly correlated with the tibial anteroposterior diameter and age (R2 = 0.872, P < .001), and there were no statistically significant gender differences. After 13 years old, the ACL length was significantly correlated with the PCL length and APTI in males (R2 = 0.443, P < .001), and with the PCL length in females (R2 = 0.443, P < .001). In children under 13 years old, there was no significant gender difference in ACL length, and the tibial anteroposterior diameter and age were found to be important indicators in assessing the ACL size. After 13 years old, a significant gender difference in ACL length was observed, and the ACL length was found to be weakly correlated with age and bone parameters. In order to accurately evaluate the ACL size in children aged 13 years and above, it is necessary to refer to the dimensions of the ACL on the collateral side.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hang Tang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yumei Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiahao Meng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weijie Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shuguang Gao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Joint Degeneration and Injury, Changsha, China
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Osteoarthritis, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center of Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Hacquart T, Erivan R, Dressaire M, Villatte G, Perrey A, Pereira B, Boisgard S, Descamps S, Bodard S, Chotel F. Growth progression of anterior cruciate ligament bone grafts in a pediatric population: magnetic resonance imaging analysis. Pediatr Radiol 2023; 53:2369-2379. [PMID: 37592189 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-023-05725-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In children, the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures and reconstructions has significantly risen. Unfortunately, re-rupture rates following surgery are substantially higher in children than adults. Previous research suggests that smaller graft diameters are predictive of re-rupture. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the growth progression of the ACL bone graft, specifically in terms of width and length, within the intra-articular portion and tunnels, using successive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. The hypothesis was that the ACL grafts would undergo thinning during growth. MATERIALS AND METHODS The cohort comprised 100 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction. Among them, 37 patients with significant residual growth were selected for analysis. Of these, 4 patients experienced graft rupture, 5 had "over-the-top" techniques, 12 had missing MRI scans and 5 were lost to follow-up. Each included patient underwent two MRI scans; the analyses of which were conducted in a double-masked manner. RESULTS A total of 13 knees (and patients) were analyzed, with a mean ± SD (range) delay of residual growth between the two MRI scans of 3.3 + / - 1.4 (1.2-5.2) years. The graft exhibited elongation, thinning and eventual integration with the surrounding bone in the tunnels. Within the intra-articular portion, the mean [95% CI] increase in graft size between the two MRI scans was 30.8% in length and 14.8% in width. The width/length ratio in the intra-articular part was 20.4% on the first MRI and 20.8% on the second MRI. Since this difference in the ratio (+ 0.4%) was not statistically significant (P=0.425), our results indicate that the grafts remained stable in terms of proportions without thinning or thickening. Therefore, the initial hypothesis was validated for the tunnel portion but not the intra-articular portion of the grafts. CONCLUSION In children with open physes, ACL grafts demonstrate smooth growth progression in all dimensions. However, this finding does not fully explain the high rate of re-rupture observed in children. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying factors contributing to re-rupture in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Hacquart
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Roger Erivan
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CNRS, SIGMA Clermont, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Margot Dressaire
- Unité de Biostatistiques, DRCI, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Guillaume Villatte
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CNRS, SIGMA Clermont, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antoine Perrey
- Service de Radiologie, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Unité de Biostatistiques, DRCI, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Stéphane Boisgard
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CNRS, SIGMA Clermont, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Stéphane Descamps
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, CNRS, SIGMA Clermont, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sylvain Bodard
- Service de RadiologieHôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris Cité, 149, Rue de Sèvres, 75015, Paris, France.
- Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.
| | - Franck Chotel
- Service de Chirurgie Orthopédique Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Brockmeyer M, Norrick S, Wagenpfeil G, Stroeder J, Landgraeber S. Size and Morphology of the Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligaments at Different Pediatric Age Intervals: An MRI Analysis. Orthop J Sports Med 2023; 11:23259671231201642. [PMID: 37900865 PMCID: PMC10612459 DOI: 10.1177/23259671231201642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears in children and adolescents has increased over the past decade, with increasing numbers of ACL and PCL reconstructions in this patient population. Purpose To evaluate the size and morphology of both the ACL and the PCL by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in different pediatric age groups. Study Design Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods MRI examinations of 127 knees (67 female, 60 male; aged 0-18 years) were analyzed retrospectively. The cohort was split into 6 age subgroups, 1 subgroup for every 3 years (minimum 8 patients per subgroup). The following parameters were measured by 2 independent raters at 2 different time points: ACL length, anteroposterior and mediolateral ACL width, sagittal and coronal ACL inclination, inclination of the intercondylar notch, bicondylar width, notch width, coronal ACL and PCL width, PCL length, and sagittal width of the lateral femoral condyle. The following indices, areas, and volumes were calculated: sagittal width of the lateral femoral condyle/PCL length, ACL area and volume, notch width index, ACL width/notch width, PCL width/notch width, ACL width/bicondylar width, and PCL width/bicondylar width. A correlation analysis was performed for patient age, height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Results ACL length was between 18 and 37 mm, and ACL width was between 4 and 6 mm. PCL length ranged between 27 and 43 mm, while PCL width was between 7 and 9 mm. Growth of the cruciate ligaments was the most pronounced between the ages of 4 and 12 years. Correlations with size and weight were strong, while BMI correlated slightly with the measurements. Measurements in female patients were slightly larger than in their male counterparts between the ages of 0 and 6 years, while male patients tended to have larger values starting from ages 7 to 9 years. These values were significantly larger in male patients from the ages of 16 to 18 years (P < .05). Conclusion This study provides normative data on the morphology of pediatric anatomic features in the knee as a basis for age-appropriate and individualized surgical care of ACL and PCL injuries in children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Brockmeyer
- Department of Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Swen Norrick
- Department of Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Gudrun Wagenpfeil
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Epidemiology and Medical Informatics, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Jonas Stroeder
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Stefan Landgraeber
- Department of Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Surgery, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Thompson JD, Howe D, Griffith EH, Fisher MB. Neo-natal castration leads to subtle differences in porcine anterior cruciate ligament morphology and function in adolescence. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.24.524954. [PMID: 36747760 PMCID: PMC9900825 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.524954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Female adolescent athletes are at a higher risk of tearing their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than male counterparts. While most work related to hormones has focused on the effects of estrogen to understand the increased risk of ACL injury, there are other understudied factors, including testosterone. The purpose of this study was to determine how surgical castration in the male porcine model influences ACL size and function across skeletal growth. Thirty-six male Yorkshire crossbreed pigs were raised to 3 (juvenile), 4.5 (early adolescent), and 6 months (adolescent) of age. Animals were either castrated (barrows) within 1-2 weeks after birth or were left intact (boars). Post-euthanasia, joint and ACL size were assessed via MRI, and biomechanics were assessed via a robotic testing system. Joint size increased throughout age, yet barrows had smaller joints than boars (p<0.001 for all measures). ACL cross-sectional area (CSA), length, volume, and stiffness increased with age (p<0.0001), as did ACL anteromedial (AM) bundle percent contribution to resisting loads (p=0.012). Boar ACL, AM bundle, and PL bundle volumes were 19% (p=0.002), 25% (p=0.003), and 15% (p=0.04) larger than barrows across ages. However, CSA, stiffness, and bundle contribution were similar between boars and barrows (p>0.05). The barrows had smaller temporal increases in AM bundle percent function than boars, but these data were highly variable. Thus, early and sustained loss in testosterone leads to subtle differences in ACL morphology, but may not influence measures associated with increased injury risk, such as CSA or bundle forces in response to applied loads.
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Tang C, Kwaees TA, Accadbled F, Turati M, Green DW, Nicolaou N. Surgical techniques in the management of pediatric anterior cruciate ligament tears: Current concepts. J Child Orthop 2023; 17:12-21. [PMID: 36755552 PMCID: PMC9900020 DOI: 10.1177/18632521221149059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Anterior cruciate ligament injury in the child and adolescent patient remains a controversial topic when considering management, especially regarding surgical choices. Treatment variations are seen not just when comparing different countries but also within nations. This arises partly as contemporary treatment is mostly inferred from the adult population who physiologically and in terms of outcomes differ significantly from children. There is an increasing body of evidence for this cohort of patients who have specific challenges and difficulties when determining the optimum treatment. Methods Within this article, we will summarize the current evidence for surgical management of anterior cruciate ligament injury for the pediatric patient. Results and Conclusions There remain many controversies and gaps inthe treatment of Paediatric Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and this high risk cohort continues to cause difficulty in identifying the best mode of surgical management. Level of evidence level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Tang
- Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics and Spinal Surgery, Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Tariq Adam Kwaees
- Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics and Spinal Surgery, Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Franck Accadbled
- Department of Orthopaedics, Children’s Hospital, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Marco Turati
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Orthopedic Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Paediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital Couple Enfant, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Daniel W Green
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicolas Nicolaou
- Department of Paediatric Orthopaedics and Spinal Surgery, Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
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Shultz SJ, Cruz MR, Casey E, Dompier TP, Ford KR, Pietrosimone B, Schmitz RJ, Taylor JB. Sex-Specific Changes in Physical Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury by Chronological Age and Stages of Growth and Maturation From 8 to 18 Years of Age. J Athl Train 2022; 57:830-876. [PMID: 36638346 PMCID: PMC9842121 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0038.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To critically assess the literature focused on sex-specific trajectories in physical characteristics associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk by age and maturational stage. DATA SOURCES PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched through December 2021. STUDY SELECTION Longitudinal and cross-sectional studies of healthy 8- to 18-year-olds, stratified by sex and age or maturation on ≥1 measure of body composition, lower extremity strength, ACL size, joint laxity, knee-joint geometry, lower extremity alignment, balance, or lower extremity biomechanics were included. DATA EXTRACTION Extracted data included study design, participant characteristics, maturational metrics, and outcome measures. We used random-effects meta-analyses to examine sex differences in trajectory over time. For each variable, standardized differences in means between sexes were calculated. DATA SYNTHESIS The search yielded 216 primary and 22 secondary articles. Less fat-free mass, leg strength, and power and greater general joint laxity were evident in girls by 8 to 10 years of age and Tanner stage I. Sex differences in body composition, strength, power, general joint laxity, and balance were more evident by 11 to 13 years of age and when transitioning from the prepubertal to pubertal stages. Sex differences in ACL size (smaller in girls), anterior knee laxity and tibiofemoral angle (greater in girls), and higher-risk biomechanics (in girls) were observed at later ages and when transitioning from the pubertal to postpubertal stages. Inconsistent study designs and data reporting limited the number of included studies. CONCLUSIONS Critical gaps remain in our knowledge and highlight the need to improve our understanding of the relative timing and tempo of ACL risk factor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra J. Shultz
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro
| | | | | | | | | | - Brian Pietrosimone
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Randy J. Schmitz
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro
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Rohde MS, Cinque ME, LaPrade CM, Ganley TJ, Shea KG. The Spectrum of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Options for the Pediatric and Adolescent Patient: A Narrative Review. J Athl Train 2022; 57:961-971. [PMID: 35380680 PMCID: PMC9842125 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0542.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
As youth sports participation has increased in recent years, injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) have become increasingly common in pediatric patients. Historically, ACL reconstruction was delayed in pediatric patients to avoid physeal damage with the potential for leg-length discrepancy or angular deformity. Current research shows that delaying reconstruction or choosing nonoperative management is associated with increased rates of meniscal and chondral injuries, persistent knee instability, and low rates of return to previous activity. Early ACL reconstruction using techniques to avoid physeal growth disturbance is now widely accepted among physicians. The purpose of this review was to describe the pediatric ACL in terms of the relevant anatomy and biomechanics, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. In addition, the importance of skeletal age and possible physeal injury is discussed in the context of ACL reconstruction options by skeletal age and remaining growth potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S. Rohde
- Department of Orthopaedics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Mark E. Cinque
- Department of Orthopaedics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | | | | | - Kevin G. Shea
- Department of Orthopaedics, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
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Howe D, Cone SG, Piedrahita JA, Collins B, Fordham LA, Griffith EH, Spang JT, Fisher MB. Sex-specific biomechanics and morphology of the anterior cruciate ligament during skeletal growth in a porcine model. J Orthop Res 2022; 40:1853-1864. [PMID: 34751996 PMCID: PMC9081289 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are on the rise, and females experience higher ACL injury risk than males during adolescence. Studies in skeletally immature patients indicate differences in ACL size and joint laxity between males and females after the onset of adolescence. However, functional data regarding the ACL and its anteromedial and posterolateral bundles in the pediatric population remain rare. Therefore, this study uses a porcine model to investigate the sex-specific morphology and biomechanics of the ACL and its bundles throughout skeletal growth. Hind limbs from male and female Yorkshire pigs aged early youth to late adolescence were imaged using magnetic resonance imaging to measure the size and orientation of the ACL and its bundles, then biomechanically tested under anterior-posterior drawer using a robotic testing system. Joint laxity decreased (p < 0.001) while joint stiffness increased (p < 0.001) throughout skeletal growth in both sexes. The ACL was the primary stabilizer against anterior tibial loading, while the functional role of the anteromedial bundle increased with age (p < 0.001), with an earlier increase in males. ACL and posterolateral bundle cross-sectional area and ACL and anteromedial bundle length were larger in males than females during adolescence (p < 0.01 for all), while ACL and bundle sagittal angle remained similar between sexes. Additionally, in situ ACL stiffness versus cross-sectional area regressions were significant across skeletal growth (r2 = 0.75, p < 0.001 in males and r2 = 0.64, p < 0.001 in females), but not within age groups. This study has implications for age and sex-specific surgical intervention strategies and suggests the need for human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Howe
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Raleigh, NC 27695,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Stephanie G. Cone
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Raleigh, NC 27695,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695,Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jorge A. Piedrahita
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695,Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Bruce Collins
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695,Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Lynn A. Fordham
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Emily H. Griffith
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Jeffrey T. Spang
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Matthew B. Fisher
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Raleigh, NC 27695,Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University; Raleigh, NC 27695,Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC 27599,Corresponding Author Contact: Address: 4130 Engineering Building III, 911 Oval Drive, CB 7115, Raleigh, NC, 27695, Telephone: 919-515-5242, Fax: 919-513-3814,
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12
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Cone SG, Barnes RH, Howe D, Fordham LA, Fisher MB, Spang JT. Age- and sex-specific differences in ACL and ACL bundle size during adolescent growth. J Orthop Res 2022; 40:1613-1620. [PMID: 34727387 PMCID: PMC9058042 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are increasingly common in adolescents, and injuries in this age-group are associated with many unique challenges. Recent large animal studies suggest that the size and function of the major bundles of the ACL change differently throughout skeletal growth. To better aid clinical treatment of pediatric partial ACL tears and better predict outcomes from age-specific treatments, there is a need to measure changes in ACL bundle size in humans during growth. As such, the objective of this study was to compare changes in the length and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the ACL and its primary bundles in adolescent human subjects. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were analyzed to determine the visibility and integrity of the ACL and its anteromedial and posterolateral bundles. MRI scans were considered from a retrospective database of subjects ranging from 10 to 18 years of age. The ACL and its anteromedial and posterolateral bundles were segmented and reconstructed into 3D models, and length and CSA were calculated. Total ACL length and CSA were greater in males compared with females, with a statistically significant interaction between age and sex for CSA. Sex had a significant effect on the CSA of both bundles. These sex-dependent differences emerge with moderate to large effect sizes (range: d = 0.50 to d = 1.23) beginning around 13 years of age. Along with ACL bundle structure-function relationships previously established in preclinical animal models, these findings may point toward biomechanical changes in the adolescent human ACL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie G. Cone
- University of Wisconsin – Madison,University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill,North Carolina State University
| | | | - Danielle Howe
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill,North Carolina State University
| | | | - Matthew B. Fisher
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill,North Carolina State University,Correspondence: Matthew B. Fisher, PhD, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 4130 Engineering Building III, CB7115, Raleigh, NC, 27695, ; Jeffrey T. Spang, MD, Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 3141 Bioinformatics Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599,
| | - Jeffrey T. Spang
- University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill,Correspondence: Matthew B. Fisher, PhD, Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 4130 Engineering Building III, CB7115, Raleigh, NC, 27695, ; Jeffrey T. Spang, MD, Department of Orthopaedics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 3141 Bioinformatics Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599,
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13
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Cancino B, Muñoz C, Tuca MJ, Birrer EAM, Sepúlveda MF. Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Skeletally Immature Patients. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev 2022; 6:01979360-202205000-00007. [PMID: 35588096 PMCID: PMC10531303 DOI: 10.5435/jaaosglobal-d-21-00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In the past 20 years, sports injuries in pediatric and adolescent athletes have increased dramatically, with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries accounting for more than 25% of all knee injuries at this age. Diagnosis is based on detailed clinical history, physical examination, and imaging assessment, where magnetic resonance imaging plays a central role. The growing immature skeleton presents specific characteristics, which require unique methods for surgical reconstruction, ideally avoiding the physes or minimizing the risk of damaging them. Specific rehabilitation protocols are needed, and these patients face a higher risk of recurrent and contralateral ACL injury. Nonsurgical treatment or delayed reconstruction has been associated with persistent instability, activity modifications, worst functional outcomes, and increased risk of irreparable injuries to menisci and articular cartilage. Consequently, surgical stabilization is the preferred treatment for most patients, despite the eventual risk of angular deformities or limb-length discrepancies due to iatrogenic physeal injury. A variety of surgical techniques have been described, depending on the skeletal maturity and growth remaining. Targeted prevention programs play a key role in reducing the risk of ACL injury, are easy to implement, and require no additional equipment. High-quality evidence supports its use in all pediatric athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamín Cancino
- From the Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Cancino, Dr. Muñoz, Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda); the Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Hospital Clínico Mutual de Seguridad, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); and Hospital Base de Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda)
| | - Carlos Muñoz
- From the Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Cancino, Dr. Muñoz, Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda); the Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Hospital Clínico Mutual de Seguridad, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); and Hospital Base de Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda)
| | - María Jesús Tuca
- From the Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Cancino, Dr. Muñoz, Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda); the Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Hospital Clínico Mutual de Seguridad, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); and Hospital Base de Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda)
| | - Estefanía A. M. Birrer
- From the Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Cancino, Dr. Muñoz, Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda); the Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Hospital Clínico Mutual de Seguridad, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); and Hospital Base de Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda)
| | - Matías F. Sepúlveda
- From the Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Cancino, Dr. Muñoz, Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda); the Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); the Hospital Clínico Mutual de Seguridad, Santiago, Chile (Dr. Tuca); and Hospital Base de Valdivia, Valdivia, Chile (Dr. Birrer, and Dr. Sepúlveda)
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14
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Zachurzok A, Mayr J, Rutz E, Tomaszewski R. Dimensions of the anterior cruciate ligament and thickness of the distal femoral growth plate in children: a MRI-based study. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2022; 143:2363-2372. [PMID: 35438332 DOI: 10.1007/s00402-022-04441-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When determining the dimensions of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft in children, bone age should be considered in addition to the patient's age, gender, and body height. OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine the relationship between age, gender, and ACL dimensions as well as thickness of growth plate cartilage of the distal femur during puberty. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed MRI scans of the knee in 131 children (82 girls, 49 boys) aged 6-18 years (mean age: 14.9 ± 2.6 years). ACL length and width as well as thickness of the growth plate cartilage at the distal femoral epiphysis were measured. RESULTS Mean ACL length increased linearly up to the age of 12 years in females and 14 years in males; thereafter, mean ACL length remained constant. Mean ACL length was largest at the age of 12 to < 13 years (38.18 mm) in females and at 15 to < 16 years (39.38 mm) in males. Mean ACL width increased up to the age of 12 years in girls and 13 years in boys. After the age of 12 years, both the ACL length and width were significantly larger in boys than girls (p = 0.002 and p = 0.045, respectively). Mean thickness of the growth plate cartilage of the distal femur remained stable up to the age of 12 years in girls and 14 years in boys. Thickness of the growth plate cartilage changed most markedly between the age intervals of 11 to < 12 years and 12 to < 13 years in girls and between the age intervals of 13 to < 14 years and 14 to < 15 years in boys. CONCLUSIONS ACL dimensions depended on both age and gender during the growth period. Measurement of cartilage thickness of the femoral distal growth plate proved to be an objective parameter to assess the maturation stage of local bone. This may be useful for the planning and timing of orthopedic ACL procedures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III-retrospective cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Zachurzok
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology, School of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Johannes Mayr
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Children's Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erich Rutz
- Paediatric Orthopaedic Department, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 2052, Australia. .,Department of Paediatrics, Bob Dickens Chair for Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia. .,Hugh Williamson Gait Analysis Laboratory, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia. .,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia. .,Medical Faculty, University of Basel, 4001, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Ryszard Tomaszewski
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.,Department of Pediatric Traumatology and Orthopedics, Upper Silesian Child Centre, Katowice, Poland
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15
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Rosso F, Rossi R, Cantivalli A, Davico M, Fracassi M, Carnazza G, Bonasia DE. Transepicondylar Distance Can Predict Graft and Tunnel Length for Different Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Techniques: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study. Arthroscopy 2022; 38:1239-1251.e3. [PMID: 34425207 DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2021.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To find a correlation and mathematical formulas between a linear 2-dimensional (2D) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurement around the knee and the length of the grafts and tunnels required for both all-inside-all-epiphyseal and Kocher-Micheli pediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction techniques. METHODS At time 0 and 30 days after, 2 observers measured: (1) on standard 2D knee MRI, 7 linear distances, representing morphologic measurements, such as transepicondylar distance (TD), and (2) on 3-dimensional (3D) MRI, 5 curved distances, corresponding to Kocher-Micheli and all-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction techniques. Intra- and interobserver reliability was tested for all measurements. The correlation between 2D and 3D measurements was tested. The 2D measurement with highest repeatability and reproducibility and with strongest correlation with 3D measurements was used to extract formulas to calculate the tunnel and graft length for the 2 techniques. RESULTS Seventy-six MRIs were used. The intra- and interobserver reliability of 2D measurement was high, with TD showing the highest reproducibility and repeatability. 3D measurements also showed good intra and inter-observer reliability. A linear correlation was found between 2D and 3D measurements, with TD showing the strongest correlation. TD was used to extract formulas to calculate graft or tunnel length for Kocher-Micheli and all-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction. All formulas were proven to be accurate. A reference chart was also created to be used in the surgical setting. CONCLUSIONS With specific formulas, TD can be used to calculate the length of the tunnels, intra-articular portion and graft length for an all-inside all-epiphyseal pediatric ACL reconstruction and the length of the iliotibial band required for the Kocher-Micheli technique. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The surgeon can use these formulas in pediatric ACL reconstruction preoperative planning, graft harvesting and tunnel drilling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Rosso
- AO Ordine Mauriziano Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Roberto Rossi
- AO Ordine Mauriziano Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Antonino Cantivalli
- AO Ordine Mauriziano Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Davide Edoardo Bonasia
- AO Ordine Mauriziano Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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16
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Heath DM, Nguyen AV, Bullock TS, Ornell SS, Bartush KC, Hogue GD. Intact PCL is a potential predictor of ACL graft size in the skeletally immature knee and other anatomic considerations for ACL reconstruction. J Exp Orthop 2022; 9:6. [PMID: 34989917 PMCID: PMC8739412 DOI: 10.1186/s40634-021-00437-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a method for using an intact posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) as a predictor of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft size and examine possible differences in tunnel length based on all-epiphyseal drilling method. METHODS One hundred one patients 5-18 years of age with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee at an outpatient pediatric orthopaedic clinic from 2008 to 2020 were included. ACL and PCL coronal, sagittal, and length measurements were made in all patients. Tunnel length measurements were made in patients with open physes. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate potential associations in patient bony or ligamentous measurements. RESULTS PCL sagittal width and PCL coronal width were statistically significant predictors of ACL sagittal width and ACL coronal width, respectively (p = 0.002, R = 0.304; p = 0.008, R = 0.264). The following equations were developed to calculate ACL coronal and sagittal width measurements from the corresponding measurement on an intact PCL; ACL Coronal Width (mm) = 6.23 + (0.16 x PCL Coronal Width); ACL Sagittal Width (mm) = 5.85 + (0.53 x PCL Sagittal Width). Mean tibial maximum oblique length (27.8 mm) was longer than mean tibial physeal sparing length (24.9 mm). Mean femoral maximum oblique length (36.9 mm) was comparable to mean femoral physeal sparing length (36.1 mm). Both were longer than mean femoral straight lateral length (32.7 mm). CONCLUSION An intact PCL is a predictor of native ACL size. Tunnel length differs based on chosen drilling method in all-epiphyseal technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Diagnostic Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Heath
- Department of Orthopaedics, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Alexander V Nguyen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY, 10075, USA
| | - Travis S Bullock
- Department of Orthopaedics, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Samuel S Ornell
- Department of Orthopaedics, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Katherine C Bartush
- Department of Orthopaedics, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Grant D Hogue
- Department of Orthopaedics, Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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