Health-related quality of life after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review

Risk-factor analysis of the proximal tibia morphology for secondary ipsilateral injury after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Many studies have reported the risk factors associated with primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. However, few studies have focused on the bony morphology of secondary ipsilateral injury after ACL reconstruction. This study aimed to investigate the morphological risk factors of the proximal tibia contributing to secondary ipsilateral injury after ACL reconstruction. Twenty patients who were selected from secondary ipsilateral injury after ACL reconstruction between January 2015 and May 2020 were included in the secondary injury group. They were matched in a 1:2 ratio to the control group, which underwent primary ACL reconstruction during the same period and did not experience reinjury at the minimum 2-year follow-up, based on age, gender, and body mass index. All parameters, including medial tibial posterior slope, lateral tibial posterior slope (LTPS), medial tibial plateau depth, and lateral tibial plateau height, were recorded by using magnetic resonance imaging. Binary logistic regression analysis and receiver operator characteristic curves were conducted to explore the risk factors for reinjury and determine the cutoff value for the significant parameter. The LTPS was significantly larger in the secondary injury group than in the control group (9.6 ± 1.5° to 7.0 ± 1.4°, P < .001), and there was no significant difference in the medial tibial posterior slope, medial tibial posterior slope, and lateral tibial plateau height between the 2 groups (P > .05). The LTPS was found to be an independent risk factor for secondary ipsilateral injury after ACL reconstruction (odds ratio = 3.220, 95% confidence interval = 1.904-5.446, P < .001). The cutoff value of the LTPS was 8.8°, with a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 81.2%. The LTPS could be a unique predictor of secondary ipsilateral injury after ACL reconstruction. Orthopedists should implement effective measurements during primary reconstruction when the LTPS is >8.8°.

'It's just my knee': a qualitative study investigating the process of reframing and young athletes' perceived quality of life between anterior cruciate ligament injury and surgery

OBJECTIVES

To understand the factors influencing young athletes' perceptions of quality of life (QOL) following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, prior to reconstructive surgery.

DESIGN

Qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis of data.

SETTING

Tertiary sports medicine clinic with patients recruited from the practices of three specialist orthopaedic surgeons.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty athletes aged 14-25 provided consent to participate in the study and completed interviews prior to their ACL reconstruction surgery. Participants were eligible to participate if they were scheduled to undergo ACL reconstruction, were 25 years of age or younger, identified as athletes (participated in any level of organised sport), could communicate in English and agreed to be audio recorded. Participants were not eligible if they had experienced a multiligament injury or fracture.

RESULTS

Young athletes shared common factors that made up their QOL; social connections and support, sport, health, and independence. However, participants' perceptions of their current QOL were quite variable (13-95/100 on a Visual Analogue Scale). Participants who were able to reframe their injury experience by shifting focus to the positive or unaffected aspects of their lives tended to have more favourable perceptions of their QOL than participants who shifted focus to the losses associated with injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Young athletes who have experienced an ACL injury define their QOL based on social support, sport, health and independence. Individual processes of adaptation and cognitive reframing in response to an ACL injury may exert a greater influence on postinjury QOL than the physical ramifications of the injury itself. Understanding individual perceptions may help target potential interventions or supports to enhance athletes' adaptation to injury.

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.

Knee Biomechanics During Cutting Maneuvers and Secondary ACL Injury Risk: A Prospective Cohort Study of Knee Biomechanics in 756 Female Elite Handball and Soccer Players

BACKGROUND

An athlete who returns to sport after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has a substantially high risk of sustaining a new secondary ACL injury. Because ACL injuries most frequently occur during cutting maneuvers, such movements should be at the center of research attention.

PURPOSE

To investigate whether knee biomechanical parameters during side-step cutting maneuvers differ between female elite athletes with and without a history of ACL injury and to evaluate whether such parameters are associated with future secondary ACL injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A total of 756 female elite handball and soccer players, of whom 76 had a history of ACL injury, performed a sport-specific cutting task while 3-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were measured. ACL injuries were registered prospectively over an 8-year follow-up period. Seven knee-specific biomechanical variables were the basis for all analyses. Two-way analyses of variance were applied to assess group differences, whereas logistic regression models served to evaluate associations between the knee-specific variables and future secondary ACL injury.

RESULTS

When players with a previous ACL injury performed the cutting maneuver with their ipsilateral leg, they exhibited lower knee abduction angles (mean difference [MD], 1.4°-1.5°; 95% CI, 0.2°-2.9°), lower peak knee flexion moments (MD, 0.33 N·m/kg-1; 95% CI, 0.18-0.48 N·m/kg-1), lower peak knee abduction moments (MD, 0.27 N·m/kg-1; 95% CI, 0.12-0.41 N·m/kg-1), and lower peak knee internal rotation moments (MD, 0.06 N·m/kg-1; 95% CI, 0.01-0.12 N·m/kg-1) compared with injury-free players. When players performed the cut with their contralateral leg, no differences were evident (P < .05). None of the 7 knee-specific biomechanical variables was associated with future secondary ACL injury in players with an ACL injury history (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Approximately 4 years after ACL injury, female elite team-ball athletes still unloaded their ipsilateral knee during cutting maneuvers, yet contralateral knee loading was similar to that of injury-free players. Knee biomechanical characteristics were not associated with future secondary ACL injury.

Objectively evaluated physical activity among individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

To compare time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per week, MVPA per day, and steps per day between individuals that were subjected to the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and healthy control group.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Data sources

Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed have been comprehensively searched to identify relevant investigations.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

An observational research that objectively evaluated physical activity among respondents with a history of ACLR.

Results

Of 302 records, a total of 12 studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Four hundred and forty-three participants underwent the ACLR, 153 men and 290 women. The mean time between anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery and evaluation of analysed outcomes was 34.8 months. The main findings demonstrated that the ACLR group spent less time in weekly MVPA (standardised mean differences (SMD)=-0.43 (95% CI -0.66 to -0.20); mean = -55.86 min (95% CI -86.45 to -25.27); p=0.0003; τ2=0.00), in daily MVPA (SMD=-0.51 95% CI -0.76 to -0.26]; mean = -15.59 min (95% CI -22.93 to -8.25); p<0.0001; τ2=0.00), and they had fewer daily steps (SMD=-0.60 95% CI -0.90 to -0.30); mean = -1724.39 steps (95% CI -2552.27 to -896.50); p<0.0001; τ2=0.00) relative to their non-injured counterparts. Additionally, available investigations indicated that individuals with a history of ACLR participated in 316.8 min of MVPA per week, 67 min in MVPA per day, and 8337 steps per day.

Conclusion

Long-term after ACLR, participants undergoing ACL surgery were less physically active compared with their non-injured peers, and they did not satisfy recommendations regarding steps per day.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023431991.

A Novel Predictor of the Length and Size of ACL Grafts in Chinese Han Adults for ACL Reconstruction: An MRI Study

OBJECTIVE

Currently, there is no simple and valid method to predict the length and size of the native anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in each adult patient who will undergo ACL reconstruction. This study aimed to develop an imaging prediction method that can predict the length and size of ACL grafts using the intact posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), in order to enhance the graft preparation individualized sizing.

METHODS

Three hundred and nineteen patients aged 18 years or older who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee at an orthopaedic clinic between September 9, 2021, and February 5, 2023, were included. The length, sagittal diameter, and coronal diameter of the ACL and PCL were measured in all patients, and F-test were performed to explore linear relationship between ligament measurements.

RESULTS

Equations were established to predict a variable of the native ACL for the corresponding variable of the intact PCL (i.e., sagittal diameter of the ACL = 4.32 + 1.08 × sagittal diameter of the PCL, and coronal diameter of the ACL = 2.45 + 0.59 × coronal diameter of the PCL, length of the male ACL = 10.92 + 0.64 × length of the male PCL, length of the female ACL = 11.76 + 0.58 × length of the female PCL) (R2  = 0.532; R2  = 0.417; R2  = 0.488; R2  = 0.509; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The length and size of the intact PCL in cases without PCL buckling are predictors of the length and size of the native ACL in adults, respectively. The use of this information to optimize graft diameter may lower the rates of ACL graft failure in the future.

Knee-Related Quality of Life Compared Between 20 and 35 Years After an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Treated Surgically With Primary Repair or Reconstruction, or Nonsurgically

BACKGROUND

Quality of life (QoL) is affected up to 5 years after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Knee impairment and osteoarthritis (OA) development increase over time, and this may affect QoL at a long-term follow-up.

PURPOSE

To investigate changes in health- and knee-related QoL between 20 and 35 years after ACL injury and compare it between patients treated with or without ACL surgery, as well as to study how symptomatic OA (SOA) is associated with change in QoL.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Between 1980 and 1983, 139 patients with acute ACL rupture were allocated to surgical or nonsurgical treatment of the ACL. Both groups completed a structured rehabilitation program. Of those patients, 59 were followed for 20 and 35 years after ACL rupture. After 10 crossovers, 33 patients were treated with primary repair or ACL reconstruction, and 26 were treated without ACL surgery. Combined radiographic OA and knee symptoms at 35 years was defined as SOA. QoL was assessed at 20 and 35 years after injury with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score QoL (KOOS-QoL) subscale (range, 1-100), ACL-QoL questionnaire (total score and 5 subscales; range, 1-100), European QoL-5 Dimensions Questionnaire, and visual analog scale. Results were analyzed with paired and independent-sample t tests and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

Knee-related QoL was impaired at both 20 and 35 years after ACL injury, and differences were dependent on the measurement outcome. In the total cohort, KOOS-QoL did not change but both total ACL-QoL score (7.1 points; 95% CI, 2.2-11.9) and 4 of 5 subscales (5-10 points) decreased (P < .05). No differences were found between treatment groups. QoL decreased overall in patients with SOA, with a 21-point difference within-group change in KOOS-QoL (SOA or non-SOA) between 20 and 35 years of follow-up (P = .001; Cohen d = 1.0).

CONCLUSION

An ACL injury impairs knee-related QoL for up to 35 years, with no difference between treatment approaches (initial repair or later reconstruction compared with nonsurgical treatment). The deterioration decreases with longer follow-up. Clinicians should be aware of differences in QoL depending on the measurement outcome.

Healing of acute anterior cruciate ligament rupture on MRI and outcomes following non-surgical management with the Cross Bracing Protocol

OBJECTIVE

Investigate MRI evidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) healing, patient-reported outcomes and knee laxity in patients with acute ACL rupture managed non-surgically with the Cross Bracing Protocol (CBP).

METHODS

Eighty consecutive patients within 4 weeks of ACL rupture were managed with CBP (knee immobilisation at 90° flexion in brace for 4 weeks, followed by progressive increases in range-of-motion until brace removal at 12 weeks, and physiotherapist-supervised goal-oriented rehabilitation). MRIs (3 months and 6 months) were graded using the ACL OsteoArthritis Score (ACLOAS) by three radiologists. Mann-Whitney U tests compared Lysholm Scale and ACL quality of life (ACLQOL) scores evaluated at median (IQR) of 12 months (7-16 months) post-injury, and χ2 tests compared knee laxity (3-month Lachman's test and 6-month Pivot-shift test), and return-to-sport at 12 months between groups (ACLOAS grades 0-1 (continuous±thickened ligament and/or high intraligamentous signal) versus ACLOAS grades 2-3 (continuous but thinned/elongated or complete discontinuity)).

RESULTS

Participants were aged 26±10 years at injury, 39% were female, 49% had concomitant meniscal injury. At 3 months, 90% (n=72) had evidence of ACL healing (ACLOAS grade 1: 50%; grade 2: 40%; grade 3: 10%). Participants with ACLOAS grade 1 reported better Lysholm Scale (median (IQR): 98 (94-100) vs 94 (85-100)) and ACLQOL (89 (76-96) vs 70 (64-82)) scores, compared with ACLOAS grades 2-3. More participants with ACLOAS grade 1 had normal 3-month knee laxity (100% vs 40%) and returned to pre-injury sport (92% vs 64%), compared with participants with an ACLOAS grades 2-3. Eleven patients (14%) re-injured their ACL.

CONCLUSION

After management of acute ACL rupture with the CBP, 90% of patients had evidence of healing on 3-month MRI (continuity of the ACL). More ACL healing on 3-month MRI was associated with better outcomes. Longer-term follow-up and clinical trials are needed to inform clinical practice.

Comparing Short-Term Knee-Related Quality of Life and Associated Clinical Outcomes Between Youth With and Without a Sport-Related Knee Injury

OBJECTIVE

To compare short-term changes in knee-related quality of life (QOL) and associated clinical outcomes between youth with and without a sport-related knee injury.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Sport medicine and physiotherapy clinics.

PARTICIPANTS

Youth (11-19 years old) who sustained an intra-articular, sport-related knee injury in the past 4 months and uninjured youth of similar age, sex, and sport.

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE

Injury history.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Knee-related QOL (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, KOOS), knee extensor and flexor strength (dynamometry), physical activity (accelerometer), fat mass index (FMI; bioelectrical impedance), and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, TSK) were measured at baseline (within 4 months of injury) and at 6-month follow-up. Wilcoxon rank sum tests assessed between-group differences for all outcomes. Regression models assessed the association between injury history and outcome change (baseline to 6-month follow-up), considering sex. The influence of injury type, baseline values, and physiotherapy attendance was explored.

RESULTS

Participants' (93 injured youth, 73 uninjured control subjects) median age was 16 (range 11-20) years and 66% were female. Despite greater improvements in KOOS QOL scores (20; 95% confidence interval, 15-25), injured participants demonstrated deficits at 6-month follow-up (z = 9.3, P < 0.01) compared with control subjects, regardless of sex. Similar findings were observed for knee extensor and flexor strength and TSK scores but not for physical activity or FMI. Lower baseline values were associated with greater outcome changes in injured youth.

CONCLUSIONS

Youth have worse knee-related QOL, muscle strength, and kinesiophobia early after a sport-related knee injury than control subjects. Despite improvements, deficits persist 6 months later.

Factors Associated With Sports Function and Psychological Readiness to Return to Sports at 12 Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Sports function and psychological readiness to return to sports (RTS) are important outcomes when evaluating rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). It is, however, unclear which specific factors contribute most to these outcomes.

PURPOSE

To determine associations between demographic characteristics, objective measurements of physical function, patient-reported outcome measure scores, sports-related function assessed with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sport and Recreation subscale, and psychological readiness to RTS assessed with the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale at 1 year after ACLR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

At a mean of 12.5 ± 2.0 months after ACLR, 143 participants (50.3% female), with a mean age of 25.0 ± 5.7 years, were assessed for demographic characteristics, physical factors (hop performance, muscle strength, ankle and hip range of motion), and psychological factors (KOOS Pain and Symptoms subscales, Perceived Stress Scale, fear of reinjury) as well as the KOOS Sport and Recreation subscale and ACL-RSI scale. Backward linear regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with sports function and psychological readiness to RTS.

RESULTS

Lower isokinetic knee extension peak torque (limb symmetry index) (B = 18.38 [95% CI, 3.01-33.75]), lower preinjury activity level (B = 2.00 [95% CI, 0.87-3.14]), greater knee pain (B = 0.90 [95% CI, 0.70-1.10]), shorter time between injury and reconstruction (B = 0.16 [95% CI, 0.05-0.26]), and greater fear of reinjury (B = 0.11 [95% CI, 0.01-0.20]) were associated with a worse KOOS Sport and Recreation subscore (R2 = 0.683). A shorter hop distance (B = 0.15 [95% CI, 0.00-0.29]) was associated with a lower ACL-RSI score (R2 = 0.245).

CONCLUSION

A combination of knee muscle strength, activity level, knee pain, timing of surgery, and fear of reinjury accounted for approximately 70% of the variation in sports function at 1 year after ACLR. In contrast, there was only 1 weak association between physical function and psychological readiness to RTS at this time point. Thus, factors associated with current sports function are much better known than features related to psychological readiness to RTS.

Muscle Strength and Efficiency of Muscle Activities Recovery Using Single-Joint Type Hybrid Assistive Limb in Knee Rehabilitation after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Decreased muscle strength often occurs after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction; this can include muscle atrophy, neuromuscular dysfunction, and reduced force generation efficiency. Hybrid assistive limb (HAL) technology, which integrates an interactive biofeedback system connecting the musculoskeletal system to the brain and spinal motor nerves, offers a potential intervention. Our study, conducted from March 2018 to August 2023 using knee HAL single-joint technology, was a prospective non-randomized controlled trial involving 27 patients who had undergone arthroscopic ACL reconstruction. They were split into two groups: HAL (18 patients) and control (nine patients). Beginning 18 weeks after their surgery, the HAL group participated in three weekly sessions of knee HAL-assisted exercises. Both the HAL and control groups underwent isokinetic muscle strength tests at postoperative weeks 17 and 21. Testing utilized an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s. The Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) was employed to measure side-to-side differences. The HAL group showed significant LSI improvements in peak extension torque across all testing velocities and for peak flexion torque at 60°/s and 300°/s. The rate of change in LSI for peak flexion torque at 300°/s was significantly higher post-measurements (p = 0.036; effect size = 1.089). The change rate for LSI in peak extension torque at 300°/s and all peak flexion torques showed medium to large effect sizes in Cohen's d. In conclusion, knee HAL single-joint training positively influenced muscle strength recovery and efficiency. The HAL training group exhibited superior muscle strength at various isokinetic testing velocities compared to the control group.

Walking speed differentially affects lower extremity biomechanics in individuals with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction compared to uninjured controls

BACKGROUND

Walking biomechanics are commonly affected after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and differ compared to uninjured controls. Manipulating task difficulty has been shown to affect the magnitude of walking impairments in those early after knee surgery but it is unclear if patients in later phases post-op are similarly affected by differing task demands. Here, we evaluated the effects of manipulating walking speed on between-limb differences in ground reaction force and knee biomechanics in those with and without anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

METHODS

We recruited 28 individuals with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and 20 uninjured control participants to undergo walking assessments at three speeds (self-selected, 120%, and 80% self-selected speed). Main outcomes included sagittal plane knee moments, angles, excursions, and ground reaction forces (vertical and anterior-posterior).

FINDINGS

We observed walking speed differentially impacted force and knee-outcomes in those with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Between-limb differences increased at fast and decreased at slow speeds in those with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction while uninjured participants maintained between-limb differences regardless of speed (partial η2 = 0.13-0.33, p < 0.05). Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients underloaded the surgical limb relative to both the contralateral, and uninjured controls in GRFs and sagittal plane knee moments (partial η2 range = 0.13-0.25, p < 0.05).

INTERPRETATION

Overall, our findings highlight the persistence of walking impairments in those with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction despite completing formal rehabilitation. Further research should consider determining if those displaying larger changes in gait asymmetries in response to fast walking also exhibit poorer strength and/or joint health outcomes.

Youth With a Sport-Related Knee Injury Exhibit Significant and Persistent Knee-Related Quality-of-Life Deficits at 12-Month Follow-up Compared to Uninjured Peers

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare knee-related quality of life (QOL) between youth with and without an intra-articular, sport-related knee injury at baseline (≤4 months postinjury), 6-month, and 12-month follow-up, and assess the association between clinical outcomes and knee-related QOL. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. METHODS: We recruited 86 injured and 64 uninjured youth (similar age, sex, sport). Knee-related QOL was assessed with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) QOL subscale. Linear mixed models (95% confidence interval [CI]; clustered on sex and sport) compared KOOS QOL between study groups over the study period, considering sex-based differences. We also explored the association of injury type (anterior cruciate ligament [ACL]/meniscus injury or other), knee extensor strength (dynamometry), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (accelerometer), intermittent knee pain (Intermittent and Constant Osteoarthritis Pain [ICOAP] measure), and fear of reinjury (17-item Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia) with knee-related QOL. RESULTS: Participant median (range) age was 16.4 (10.9-20.1) years, 67% were female, and 56% of injuries were ACL ruptures. Injured participants had lower mean KOOS QOL scores at baseline (-61.05; 95% CI: -67.56, -54.53), 6-month (-41.37; 95% CI: -47.94, -34.80), and 12-month (-33.34; 95% CI: -39.86, -26.82) follow-up, regardless of sex. Knee extensor strength (6- and 12-month follow-up), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (12-month follow-up), and ICOAP (all time points) were associated with KOOS QOL in injured youth. Additionally, having an ACL/meniscus injury and higher Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia scores were associated with worse KOOS QOL in injured youth. CONCLUSION: Youth with a sport-related knee injury have significant, persistent knee-related QOL deficits at 12-month follow-up. Knee extensor strength, physical activity, pain, and fear of reinjury may contribute to knee-related QOL. JOSPT 2023;53(8):1-10. Epub: 20 June 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11611.

Dynamic intermittent compression cryotherapy with intravenous nefopam results in faster pain recovery than static compression cryotherapy with oral nefopam: post-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic intermittent compression cryotherapy (DICC) (CryoNov®) with an intravenous nefopam-based pain management protocol (DCIVNPP) in reducing post-operative pain following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) compared to static compression cryotherapy (SCC) (Igloo®) and oral Nefopam.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data including 676 patients who underwent primary ACLR in 2022. Patients were either in the DCIVNPP group or in the SCC (control group), and were matched for age, sex, and Lysholm and Tegner scores (338 per arm). The primary outcome was pain on the visual analogue scale (VAS), analyzed in relation to the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and the Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) thresholds for VAS. The secondary outcome was side effects.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain in the DCIVNPP group was less severe on the VAS than in the control group (p < 0.05). The maximum difference in the VAS between groups was 0.57, which is less than the MCID threshold for VAS. The DCIVNPP group crossed the PASS threshold for VAS on Day 3, sooner than the control group. The side effect profiles were similar in both groups except for higher rates of dizziness and malaise in the DCIVNPP group, and higher rates of abdominal pain in the control group. Most of the side effects decreased over time in both groups, with no significant side effects after Day 3.

CONCLUSION

DCIVNPP effectively allows for faster pain recovery than in the control group. The difference in side effects between the protocols may be due to mode of administration of nefopam.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Knee- and Overall Health-Related Quality of Life Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: A Cross-sectional Analysis of Australian and Canadian Cohorts

OBJECTIVE: To describe the knee- and overall health-related quality of life (QOL) 3 to 12 years after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, and to assess the association of clinical and structural features with QOL after ACL tear. DESIGN: Cross-sectional analysis of combined data from Australian (n = 76, 5.4 years postinjury) and Canadian (n = 50, 6.6 years postinjury) prospective cohort studies. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of patient-reported outcomes and index knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquired in 126 patients (median 5.5 [range: 4-12] years postinjury), all treated with ACL reconstruction. Outcomes included knee (ACL Quality of Life questionnaire [ACL-QOL]) and overall health-related QOL (EQ-5D-3L). Explanatory variables were self-reported knee pain (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS-Pain subscale]) and function (KOOS-Sport subscale), and any knee cartilage lesion (MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score). Generalized linear models were adjusted for clustering between sites. Covariates were age, sex, time since injury, injury type, subsequent knee injuries, and body mass index. RESULTS: The median [range] ACL-QOL score was 82 [24-100] and EQ-5D-3L was 1.0 [-0.2 to 1.0]. For every 10-point higher KOOS-Sport score, the ACL-QOL score increased by 3.7 points (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.7, 5.7), whereas there was no evidence of an association with the EQ-5D-3L (0.00 points, 95% CI: -0.02, 0.02). There were no significant association between KOOS-Pain and ACL-QOL (4.9 points, 95% CI: -0.1, 9.9) or EQ-5D-3L (0.05 points, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.11), respectively. Cartilage lesions were not associated with ACL-QOL (-1.2, 95% CI: -5.1, 2.7) or EQ-5D-3L (0.01, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.04). CONCLUSION: Self-reported function was more relevant for knee-related QOL than knee pain or cartilage lesions after ACL tear. Self-reported function, pain, and knee structural changes were not associated with overall health-related QOL. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(7):1-12. Epub: 8 June 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11838.

Influence of Graft Type on Lower Extremity Functional Test Performance and Failure Rate After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Both autografts and allografts are used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) after injury; however, it is unclear whether graft source affects lower extremity functional test performance or failure rate in an active military population.

OBJECTIVE

To compare lower extremity functional test performance and graft failure rates between ACL grafts [allograft, hamstring, bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB)].

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2.

METHODS

Ninety-eight cadets entering a US Service Academy with a history of unilateral ACL reconstruction (ACLR) agreed to participate. Before basic training, participants completed 4 lower extremity functional tests. Active injury surveillance was conducted within the study cohort to identify all subsequent graft failures.

RESULTS

Cadets with hamstring autografts outperformed the BTB and allograft groups on the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test-Posteromedial direction and single-leg hop test, respectively. No differences were detected by graft type for the other functional tests. The incidence of subsequent ipsilateral graft failures in patients with autograft was 8.11%. No failures were observed in the allograft group during the follow-up period. After controlling for sex, joint hypermobility, and time since injury and surgery, the risk of graft failure was 9.8 times higher for patients with a hamstring autograft than with a BTB (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

After ACLR, graft type appears to influence some single-limb measures of lower extremity function and the risk of subsequent failure. Hamstring autografts demonstrated better functional performance but increased risk of graft failure.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Surgeons need to weigh the pros and cons of all graft options in relation to the patient's lifestyle. Regardless of graft type, individuals with an ACLR may require additional rehabilitation to regain neuromuscular control during dynamic single-limb tasks and mitigate graft failure.

Assessments of early patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis features after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Persistent anterior knee pain and subsequent patellofemoral joint (PFJ) osteoarthritis (OA) are common symptoms after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Quadriceps weakness and atrophy is also common after ACLR. This can be contributed by arthrogenic muscle inhibition and disuse, caused by joint swelling, pain, and inflammation after surgery. With quadriceps atrophy and weakness are associated with PFJ pain, this can cause further disuse exacerbating muscle atrophy. Herein, this study aims to identify early changes in musculoskeletal, functional and quality of health parameters for knee OA after 5 years of ACLR.

METHODS

Patients treated with arthroscopically assisted single-bundle ACLR using hamstrings graft for more than 5 years were identified and recruited from our clinic registry. Those with persistent anterior knee pain were invited back for our follow-up study. For all participants, basic clinical demography and standard knee X-ray were taken. Likewise, clinical history, symptomatology, and physical examination were performed to confirm isolated PFJ pain. Outcome measures including leg quadriceps quality using ultrasound, functional performance using pressure mat and pain using self-reported questionnaires (KOOS, Kujala and IKDC) were assessed. Interobserver reproducibility was assessed by two reviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 19 patients with unilateral injury who had undergone ACLR 5-years ago with persistent anterior knee pain participated in this present study. Toward the muscle quality, thinner vastus medialis and more stiffness in vastus lateralis were found in post-ACLR knees (p < 0.05). Functionally, patients with more anterior knee pain tended to shift more of their body weight towards the non-injured limb with increasing knee flexion. In accordance, rectus femoris muscle stiffness in the ACLR knee was significantly correlated with pain (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this study, it was found that patients having higher degree of anterior knee pain were associated with higher vastus medialis muscle stiffness and thinner vastus lateralis muscle thickness. Similarly, patients with more anterior knee pain tended to shift more of their body weight towards the non-injured limb leading to an abnormal PFJ loading. Taken together, this current study helped to indicate that persistent quadriceps muscle weakness is potential contributing factor to the early development of PFJ pain.

Long-term Quality of Life in Patients After ACL Reconstruction With Concomitant Meniscal Injury Treatment: Patient-Reported Outcomes at Minimum 10-Year Follow-up

Background

Long-term studies of patients after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with or without concomitant meniscal tear treatment are limited.

Purposes

To (1) report postoperative outcomes after anatomic ACL reconstruction with a hamstring autograft, (2) investigate how concomitant treatment of meniscal injury could affect these outcomes, and (3) evaluate the association between quality of life and activity levels at a minimum 10-year follow-up.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Patients treated with a unilateral, anatomic ACL reconstruction between 2005 and 2011 were investigated. The following patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were reported for the overall sample as well as a subsample of patients with meniscal injury: International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC-SKF), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity scale, 5-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L), and patient satisfaction. Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), and meniscal injury treatment (meniscectomy vs meniscal repair) were examined as patient-specific risk factors regarding long-term activity and quality of life.

Results

Overall, 106 patients, 90 men (85%) and 16 women (15%), were enrolled in the study, with a mean follow-up of 13.2 years. The ACL retear rate was 2.8%. The mean scores were 80.6 ± 16.7 (IKDC-SKF), 87.4 ± 15.0 (KOOS), 90.5 ± 11.5 (Lysholm), 5.6 ± 1.9 (Tegner), and 91.8 ± 14.5 (EQ-5D-5L). The majority (90.6%) of patients considered their knee state satisfactory during follow-up. When compared with patients who underwent meniscal repair, patients who underwent meniscectomy had statistically significantly lower scores on all PROMs except for the Tegner and EQ-5D-5L (P < .05 for all). The mean difference between the 2 groups was ≥7 points on all PROM scores. Patient sex, age, and BMI did not affect PROM scores. There was a statistically significant, strong positive correlation between quality of life and activity.

Conclusion

Patients had few or no symptoms and considered their knee state satisfactory 13.2 years after anatomic ACL reconstruction. Patients with concomitant meniscal tears having undergone meniscal repair had improved PROMs compared with those treated with meniscectomy. Finally, participation in activities of daily living and sports was interrelated with quality of life and was not affected by patient age, sex, or BMI.

Improvement Trajectories in Patient-Reported Outcomes Between Males and Females After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

CONTEXT

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used to track recovery and inform clinical decision-making after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Whether sex influences the trajectory of improvements in PROs over time post-ACLR remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To (1) examine the effect of sex on the association between months post-ACLR and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Quality of Life (QOL) scores in individuals with ACLR and (2) assess sex differences in the KOOS QOL score at selected timepoints post-ACLR.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Laboratory.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

A total of 133 females (20± 3 years) and 85 males (22 ± 4 years) within 6 to 60 months of primary, unilateral ACLR.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The KOOS QOL was completed at a single follow-up timepoint post-ACLR. A multivariate linear regression model was calculated to assess the interaction of sex on the association between months post-ACLR and KOOS QOL score. Sex-specific linear regression models were then used to predict KOOS QOL estimated marginal means at each clinical timepoint (6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months post-ACLR) and compare the sexes.

RESULTS

In the primary model (R2 = 0.16, P < .0001), a significant interaction existed between sex and time post-ACLR (β = -0.46, P < .01). Greater months post-ACLR were associated with better KOOS QOL scores for males (R2 = 0.29, β = 0.69, P < .001); months post-ACLR was a weaker predictor of KOOS QOL scores for females (R2 = 0.04, β = 0.23, P < .02). Estimated marginal means for KOOS QOL scores were greater for males than females at 36 months (t210 = 2.76, P < .01), 48 months (t210 = 3.02, P < .01), and 60 months (t210 = 3.09, P = .02) post-ACLR.

CONCLUSIONS

Males exhibited PRO improvement post-ACLR as the months post-ACLR increased, whereas females did not demonstrate the same magnitude of linear increase in KOOS QOL score. Females may require extended intervention to improve clinical outcomes post-ACLR and address a plateau in QOL score.

Trends in Patient-Reported Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Background

Despite the prevalence of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to evaluate results after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, there exists little standardization in how these metrics are reported, which can make wider comparisons difficult.

Purpose

To systematically review the literature on ACL reconstruction and report on the variability and temporal trends in PRO utilization.

Study Design

Systematic review.

Methods

We queried the PubMed Central and MEDLINE databases from inception through August 2022 to identify clinical studies reporting ≥1 PRO after ACL reconstruction. Only studies with ≥50 patients and a mean 24-month follow-up were considered for inclusion. Year of publication, study design, PROs, and reporting of return to sport (RTS) were documented.

Results

Across 510 studies, 72 unique PROs were identified, the most common of which were the International Knee Documentation Committee score (63.3%), Tegner Activity Scale (52.4%), Lysholm score (51.0%), and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (35.7%). Of the identified PROs, 89% were utilized in <10% of studies. The most common study designs were retrospective (40.6%), prospective cohort (27.1%), and prospective randomized controlled trials (19.4%). Some consistency in PROs was observed among randomized controlled trials, with the most common PROs being the International Knee Documentation Committee score (71/99, 71.7%), Tegner Activity Scale (60/99, 60.6%), and Lysholm score (54/99, 54.5%). The mean number of PROs reported per study across all years was 2.89 (range, 1-8), with an increase from 2.1 (range, 1-4) in studies published before 2000 to 3.1 (range, 1-8) in those published after 2020. Only 105 studies (20.6%) discretely reported RTS rates, with more studies utilizing this metric after 2020 (55.1%) than before 2000 (15.0%).

Conclusion

There exists marked heterogeneity and inconsistency regarding which validated PROs are used in studies related to ACL reconstruction. Significant variability was observed, with 89% of measures being reported in <10% of studies. RTS was discretely reported in only 20.6% of studies. Greater standardization of outcomes reporting is required to better promote objective comparisons, understand technique-specific outcomes, and facilitate value determination.

The Relationship of Knee-related Quality of Life With Function, Psychological Factors, Strength, Performance, and Postural Stability After ACL Reconstruction: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) have decreased health-related quality of life (QoL) compared with healthy control participants. Few studies have verified the predictors of QoL using Quality of Life Outcome Measure Questionnaire for Chronic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency (ACL-QoL), and no study has verified the relationship of psychological factors and knee function with ACL-QoL in patients after ACLR.

HYPOTHESIS

Knee functional status, muscle strength, performance in hop tests, postural stability, and psychological factors would be the predictors of QoL after ACLR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

METHODS

A total of 131 participants who had undergone ACLR at least 6 months previously were evaluated. QoL was assessed using ACL-QoL; knee functional status, using International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee (IKDC) and global rating scale (GRS); psychological readiness, using Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury Scale (ACL-RSI); kinesiophobia, using Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-17); knee strength, using isokinetic dynamometer; performance, using single-leg hop tests; and postural stability, using Biodex Balance System. Pearson's linear correlation and stepwise hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses were performed to verify the predictors of QoL.

RESULTS

ACL-QoL showed a moderate correlation with IKDC (r = 0.69), GRS (r = 0.55), ACL-RSI (r = 0.50), and TSK-17 (r = -0.49). ACL-QoL presented none to low correlations with the variables of muscle strength, postural stability, and performance in hop tests. The variables related to the knee functional status and psychological factors (IKDC, GRS, ACL-RSI, and TSK-17) were found to be the predictors of QoL (R2 = 0.56; P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Knee functional status, psychological readiness, and kinesiophobia were the predictors of knee-related QoL in patients after ACLR.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

These results can assist clinicians in the therapeutic monitoring of the factors that may interfere with QoL in patients after ACLR.

The Comparison of Psychological Barriers Between Individuals with a History of Anterior Knee Pain, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction, and Healthy Individuals

Background

Psychological barriers due to anterior knee pain (AKP) and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) may have a direct impact on an individual's return to physical activity. A comprehensive understanding of these psychological barriers in individuals with AKP and ACLR may help clinicians to develop and implement better treatment strategies to address deficits that may exist in these individuals.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate fear-avoidance, kinesiophobia, and pain catastrophizing in individuals with AKP and ACLR compared with healthy individuals. The secondary purpose was to directly compare psychological characteristics between the AKP and ACLR groups. It was hypothesized that 1) individuals with AKP and ACLR would self-report worse psychosocial function than healthy individuals and 2) the extent of the psychosocial impairments between the two knee pathologies would be similar.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Eighty-three participants (28 AKP, 26 ACLR, and 29 healthy individuals) were analyzed in this study. Fear avoidance belief questionnaire (FABQ) with the physical activity (FABQ-PA) and sport (FABQ-S) subscales, Tampa scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-11) and pain catastrophizing scale (PCS) assessed psychological characteristics. Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the FABQ-PA, FABQ-S, TSK-11, and PCS scores across the three groups. Mann-Whitney U tests were performed to determine where group differences occurred. Effect sizes (ES) were calculated with the Mann-Whitney U z-score divided by the square root of the sample size.

Results

Individuals with AKP or ACLR had significantly worse psychological barriers compared to the healthy individuals for all questionnaires (FABQ-PA, FABQ-S, TSK-11, and PCS) (p<0.001, ES>0.86). There were no differences between the AKP and ACLR groups (p≥0.67), with a medium ES (-0.33) in the FABQ-S between AKP and ACLR groups.

Conclusion

Greater psychological scores indicate impaired psychological readiness to perform physical activity. Clinicians should be aware of fear-related beliefs following knee-related injuries and are encouraged to measure psychological factors during the rehabilitation process.

Level of Evidence

2.

The Swedish version of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Quality Of Life measure (ACL-QOL): translation and measurement properties

PURPOSE

To translate the ACL-QOL from English to Swedish and evaluate measurement properties for use after surgical and non-surgical management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

METHODS

The ACL-QOL was translated from English to Swedish and data were pooled from 13 cohorts to enable a comprehensive evaluation of measurement properties in line with COSMIN guidelines. We evaluated internal consistency, test-re-test reliability, measurement error, structural validity [confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)], construct validity and responsiveness (hypothesis testing), and floor/ceiling effects. Results were stratified by time since injury (≤ 1.5 years; 2-10 years, 15-25 years; > 30 years) and ACL management strategy [surgical (n = 1163), non-surgical (n = 570)].

RESULTS

The Swedish ACL-QOL had sufficient internal consistency (total and domain scores) for use in surgically managed (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.744) and non-surgically managed (≥ 0.770) ACL-injured individuals at all time-points. Test-re-test reliability was sufficient [intraclass correlation coefficients: all domains > 0.80, total score 0.93 (95% CI 0.86-0.96)]. The standard error of measurement was 5.6 for the total score and ranged from 7.0 to 10.3 for each domain. CFA indicated sufficient SRMR values when using the total score or five domains; however, CFI and RMSEA values did not meet cut-offs for good model fit. Hypothesis testing indicated sufficient construct validity and responsiveness. Floor effects were negligible and ceiling effects were negligible or minor.

CONCLUSION

The Swedish version of the ACL-QOL has sufficient internal consistency, test-re-test reliability, construct validity and responsiveness, for use in people with ACL injury managed with or without ACL surgery. Model fit could be improved and investigation into the source of misfit is warranted.

Variables associated with successful outcome after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in recreational athletes: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and subsequent reconstruction is common and has a profound effect on health-related quality of life. There is currently limited understanding as to which variables are associated with a successful outcome post-ACL reconstruction (ACLR) in recreational athletes.

PURPOSE

Explore the association between both patient-reported and performance-based measures, and successful outcome, post-ACLR in recreational athletes.

PROCEDURES

We sought to recruit recreational athletes within one month of a primary-ACLR for a prospective cohort study. A dichotomised patient specific functional scale of ≥9 points determined a successful outcome at nine-months post-operative. Secondary patient-reported and performance-based data were collected at baseline, three-, six-, and nine-months post-operative. The association between secondary data and the primary outcome was determined using binomial logistic regression, expressed using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

90 participants were recruited (males: 58, females: 32, mean age 32.8 years [±7.9], mean height 173.5 [±10.0], mean body mass 74.0 kg [±15.8]), 87 consented to baseline measures. 47 participants completed full data collection and 21 (45%) reported a successful outcome. Higher knee osteoarthritis outcome score (OR range 1.07-1.12) and anterior cruciate ligament quality of life (ACL-QoL) scores (OR range 1.06-1.10) were associated with a successful outcome post-ACLR at various timepoints.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-reported, rather than performance-based, measures were associated with successful outcome nine-months post-ACLR in recreational athletes. Both patient-reported and performance-based characteristics are advocated to guide optimal return to function in clinical practice.

No differences found in long-term outcomes of a randomized controlled trial comparing ipsilateral versus contralateral hamstring graft in ACL reconstruction

PURPOSE

Contralateral graft harvest in primary ACL reconstruction is relatively uncommon and the long-term comparative of this approach relative to ipsilateral harvest has not been described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ACL graft and contralateral rupture following ipsilateral or contralateral semitendinosus and gracilis (STG) graft harvest at follow-up of a minimum 10 years post-reconstruction in the treatment of a complete ACL tear.

METHODS

Patients from a previous randomized trial were evaluated. The primary outcome measures were ipsilateral and contralateral reinjury as well as the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee assessment form, the ACL Quality of Life questionnaire (ACL-QoL) and the Tegner activity scale. Participants completed four different single-leg hop tests and concentric knee flexion and extension strength were assessed on an isokinetic dynamometer.

RESULTS

Of the original 100 patients, 50 patients (41.3 ± 9.5 years of age, 31 males, 19 females) reported on re-injury at 12.6 ± 1.4 years post-operative. Thirty-eight patients returned for full assessment and 12 responded by mail or phone survey. There were no differences between groups for graft rupture, contralateral injury, ACL-QoL score, IKDC categorization, or anterior tibial translation, though both groups experienced a reduction in the Tegner Activity Scale from their preinjury scores. There was no difference in knee flexor and extensor isokinetic concentric strength, or single leg hop test performance. Knee flexor strength limb symmetry index was reduced when measured in the supine relative to the seated position in both groups, indicating persistent deficits in knee flexor strength when measured in the supine position.

CONCLUSION

Contralateral hamstring harvest does not put patients at an increased risk of a contralateral ACL tear and long-term outcomes of ACL reconstruction do not differ based on the side of graft harvest. Contralateral STG harvest may provide a safe alternative surgical option for select patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Primary surgery versus primary rehabilitation for treating anterior cruciate ligament injuries: a living systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Compare the effectiveness of primarily surgical versus primarily rehabilitative management for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture.

DESIGN

Living systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

Six databases, six trial registries and prior systematic reviews. Forward and backward citation tracking was employed.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials that compared primary reconstructive surgery and primary rehabilitative treatment with or without optional reconstructive surgery.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Bayesian random effects meta-analysis with empirical priors for the OR and standardised mean difference and 95% credible intervals (CrI), Cochrane RoB2, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach to judge the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS

Of 9514 records, 9 reports of three studies (320 participants in total) were included. No clinically important differences were observed at any follow-up for self-reported knee function (low to very low certainty of evidence). For radiological knee osteoarthritis, we found no effect at very low certainty of evidence in the long term (OR (95% CrI): 1.45 (0.30 to 5.17), two studies). Meniscal damage showed no effect at low certainty of evidence (OR: 0.85 (95% CI 0.45 to 1.62); one study) in the long term. No differences were observed between treatments for any other secondary outcome. Three ongoing randomised controlled trials were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

There is low to very low certainty of evidence that primary rehabilitation with optional surgical reconstruction results in similar outcome measures as early surgical reconstruction for ACL rupture. The findings challenge a historical paradigm that anatomic instability should be addressed with primary surgical stabilisation to provide optimal outcomes.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021256537.

Long-term quality of life, work limitation, physical activity, economic cost and disease burden following ACL and meniscal injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis for the OPTIKNEE consensus

OBJECTIVE

Determine the long-term health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL), work limitation, physical activity, health/economic cost and disease burden of traumatic ACL and/or meniscal injury. Findings will inform OPTIKNEE evidence-based consensus recommendations.

DESIGN

Random-effects meta-analysis evaluated HRQoL (SF-36/SF-12/VR-12 Physical Component Scores (PCS) and Mental Component Scores (MCS), EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D)) stratified by time postinjury, and pooled mean differences (95% CI) between ACL-injured and uninjured controls. Other outcomes were synthesised descriptively. Risk-of-bias (RoB) and certainty of evidence (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) were assessed.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL searched inception: 22 November 2021.

ELIGIBILITY

Studies reporting HRQoL, work limitations, physical activity levels, health/economic costs or disease burden, ≥2 years post-ACL and/or meniscal injury.

RESULTS

Fifty studies were included (10 high-RoB, 28 susceptible-to-some-bias and 12 low-RoB). Meta-analysis (27 studies, very low certainty of evidence) estimated a pooled mean (95% CI) PCS of 52.4 (51.4 to 53.4) and MCS of 54.0 (53.0 to 55.0) 2-14 years post-ACL injury. Pooled PCS scores were worse >10 years (50.8 (48.7 to 52.9)) compared with 2-5 years (53.9 (53.1 to 54.7)) postinjury. Excluding high-RoB studies, PCS scores were worse in ACL-injured compared with uninjured controls (-1.5 (-2.9 to -0.1)). Six studies (low certainty of evidence) informed a pooled EQ-5D score of 0.83 (0.81 to 0.84). Some individuals experienced prolonged work absenteeism and modified activities ≥2 years post-ACL injury. ACL injury was associated with significant direct and indirect costs, and early ACL reconstruction may be less cost-effective than rehabilitation. Only three studies evaluated meniscal injury outcomes (all evaluated HRQoL).

CONCLUSION

There is a very-low certainty of evidence that PCS scores ≥2 years post-ACL injury are worse than uninjured controls and decline over time, whereas MCS scores remain high. ACL injury can result in prolonged work absenteeism and high health/economic costs. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term burden of traumatic meniscal injury.

Evaluation of an injury prevention programme (Prep-to-Play) in women and girls playing Australian Football: design of a pragmatic, type III, hybrid implementation-effectiveness, stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Due to the increase in participation and risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and concussion in women's Australian Football, an injury prevention programme (Prep-to-Play) was codesigned with consumers (eg, coaches, players) and stakeholders (eg, the Australian Football League). The impact of supported and unsupported interventions on the use of Prep-to-Play (primary aim) and injury rates (secondary aim) will be evaluated in women and girls playing community Australian Football.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This stepped-wedge, cluster randomised controlled trial will include ≥140 teams from U16, U18 or senior women's competitions. All 10 geographically separated clusters (each containing ≥14 teams) will start in the control (unsupported) phase and be randomised to one of five dates (or 'wedges') during the 2021 or 2022 season to sequentially transition to the intervention (supported Prep-to-Play), until all teams receive the intervention. Prep-to-Play includes four elements: a neuromuscular training warm-up, contact-focussed football skills (eg, tackling), strength exercises and education (eg, technique cues). When transitioning to supported interventions, study physiotherapists will deliver a workshop to coaches and player leaders on how to use Prep-to-Play, attend team training at least two times and provide ongoing support. In the unsupported phase, team will continue usual routines and may freely access available Prep-to-Play resources online (eg, posters and videos about the four elements), but without additional face-to-face support. Outcomes will be evaluated throughout the 2021 and 2022 seasons (~14 weeks per season).

PRIMARY OUTCOME

use of Prep-to-Play will be reported via a team designate (weekly) and an independent observer (five visits over the two seasons) and defined as the team completing 75% of the programme, two-thirds (67%) of the time.

SECONDARY OUTCOMES

injuries will be reported by the team sports trainer and/or players. Injury definition: any injury occurring during a football match or training that results in: (1) being unable to return to the field of play for that match or (2) missing ≥ one match. Outcomes in the supported and unsupported phases will be compared using a generalised linear mixed model adjusting for clustering and time. Due to the type III hybrid implementation-effectiveness design, the study is powered to detect a improvement in use of Prep-to-Play and a reduction in ACL injuries.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

La Trobe University Ethics Committee (HREC 20488) approved. Coaches provided informed consent to receive the supported intervention and players provided consent to be contacted if they sustained a head or knee injury. Results will be disseminated through partner organisations, peer-reviewed publications and scientific conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04856241.

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

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.

Translation, Validity, and Reliability of the Dutch Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Quality of Life Questionnaire

Background

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Quality of Life (ACL-QoL) questionnaire is a valid and reliable injury-specific instrument to assess the impact of an ACL rupture on the daily life of a patient.

Purpose

To translate the ACL-QoL into Dutch (ACL-QoL-NL) and to study its psychometric properties in patients with an ACL rupture.

Study Design

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

The original ACL-QoL questionnaire was translated from English to Dutch according to international guidelines. The study population consisted of 122 patients with a confirmed ACL rupture who completed the ACL-QoL-NL as well as 4 questionnaires: the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, 36-item Short Form Health Survey, and Lysholm Knee Score. We determined the internal consistency, construct validity, and prevalence of floor and ceiling effects of the ACL-QoL-NL total score as well as its 5 subscales. To determine test-retest reliability, we analyzed the data of 68 patients who had a stable knee condition and who completed the ACL-QoL-NL a second time after a 2-week interval.

Results

The confirmatory factor analysis showed that the original structure of the ACL-QoL-NL was confirmed, except for 4 of 31 items. Internal consistency of the total scale and all 5 subscales was good. More than 75% of the predefined hypotheses on the correlations between the ACL-QoL-NL and the 4 questionnaires were met, indicating good construct validity. No significant floor or ceiling effects were observed. Test-retest reliability was good, and no systematic bias between test and retest was found. Standard error of measurement for the total score was 4.8 points out of 100, and the smallest detectable changes at the group and individual levels were 1.6 and 13.2 points, respectively.

Conclusion

The ACL-QoL-NL questionnaire was successfully translated from English to Dutch and demonstrated good internal consistency, validity, and reliability, with no presence of floor or ceiling effects.

'I was young, I wanted to return to sport, and re-ruptured my ACL' - young active female patients' voices on the experience of sustaining an ACL re-rupture, a qualitative study

Background

Despite anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) re-ruptures being common, research on patient experiences after knee trauma has primarily focused on the time after primary ACL reconstruction. Integrating qualitative research and patient experiences can facilitate researchers and clinicians in understanding the burden of an ACL re-rupture. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of an ACL re-rupture journey in young active females aiming to return to knee-strenuous sports after primary ACL reconstruction.

Method

Fifteen young (19[range 16–23] years old) active females who suffered an ACL re-rupture were interviewed with semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis using deductive approach based on Wiese-Bjornstal’s ‘integrated model of response to sport injury’ was used.

Results

The results are presented in two timelines 1) from first ACL injury to ACL re-rupture, and 2) from ACL re-rupture to present day, and further stratified according to the domains of the ‘integrated model of psychological response to injury’. Results in the first timeline are summarised into seven categories: Finding hope for the journey; Accepting my ACL injury; I succeeded; What matters now? Who am I?; Where will this end? What is going to happen? In the second timeline, eight categories were identified: Fighting spirit; A helping hand; Working hard; I am a new me; I am destroyed; Loneliness; Painful changes; and, I could have made it to the pro´s.

Conclusion

Young active females who suffered an ACL re-rupture did not express any positive experience following their first ACL injury, however, in contrast, expressed positive experiences and personal growth after going through the ACL re-rupture journey, characterized by a lot of struggling, and ultimately led to the experience of becoming a new, stronger person.

Differences in health-related quality of life among patients after ankle injury

Ankle sprains are the most common injuries sustained in the physically active, often associated with pain and functional limitations long after initial recovery. In recent years, the impact of ankle sprains on general health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been noted in athletes, but is not well-documented in the general population. We examined differences in HRQoL and general health between individuals with ankle sprain history and healthy controls. Those with ankle sprain reported significantly higher body mass index and general body pain, and lower SF-8 physical component scores than healthy controls. Additionally, there is some indication that physical activity is lower in those with ankle sprain history. This is an important step in illustrating the adverse sequelae of ankle sprains on population health and HRQoL.

In vivo knee rotational stability 2 years after the ACL reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft with bone block and bone-patellar tendon-bone graft

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this prospective randomised study was to evaluate clinical results and rotational stability at least 2 years after single-bundle anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft with bone block (BT) and bone-patellar tendon-bone graft (BTB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In both groups (BT and BTB), 40 patients selected prospectively at random were evaluated. The mean follow-up after the surgery was 28 months (range 24-33 months). A navigation system was used to measure rotational stability of the knee joint. Cincinnati, Lysholm, and IKDC scores and visual analog score (VAS) were used to evaluate clinical results and the non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

After the BT reconstruction, the mean internal rotation of the tibia (IR) was 9.5°. In the contralateral healthy knee joint, IR was 8.6° at average. After the BTB reconstruction, the mean IR was 9.9°. In the contralateral healthy knee joint, IR was 8.7° at average. We did not find any statistically significant difference in IR stability between BT and BTB reconstruction. In terms of clinical results, regarding the VAS, patients perceive significantly more pain after the BTB reconstruction (p < 0.05). Kneeling was reported more difficult and painful after BTB reconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

The BT reconstruction of the ACL provides similar clinical results, less pain, better flexion and the same rotational stability of the knee in comparison with the BTB reconstruction.

Effects of the Graft Type Used for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction on Isokinetic Muscle Strength and Quality of Life

There is no consensus about which graft type should be used in patients who will undergo anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction so far. In this study, it was aimed to compare the quality of life, knee functions, and isokinetic muscle strength of patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon (HT) and bone-tendon-bone (BTB) autografts. Total 40 patients with ACL reconstruction (20 in HT group and 20 in BTB group), at least 1 year after the operation, all injured during sports activity were included in this study. Flexor and extensor muscle groups of both affected and unaffected knees at angular velocities of 60 and 180 degrees/s were recorded. Lysholm knee score questionnaire and Short Form (SF)-36 were administered to all patients before the isokinetic tests. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups at any angular velocity in isokinetic evaluation. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in regard to Lysholm score. However, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in SF-36 physical function domain score (p < 0.01). The results demonstrated that the SF-36 questionnaire can easily be applied to this patient population. There was only one significant difference in the SF-36 physical function component scores between the two groups. The quality of life, knee functions, and isokinetic muscle strength were similar in patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with HT and BTB.

Changes in Bone Mineral Density of the Femur and Tibia Before Injury to 2 Years After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Division I Collegiate Athletes

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a significant long term concern after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). A low bone mineral density (BMD), particularly in the subchondral region, has been associated with the development of OA and is evident at the knee in patients long after ACLR. It is unknown if persistent BMD deficits are present in high level collegiate athletes.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to evaluate bilateral changes in the BMD of the femur and tibia from before the injury to 24 months after ACLR in collegiate athletes. We hypothesized that the BMD of both the distal femur and the proximal tibia would be significantly reduced within the surgical limb initially postoperatively but return to preinjury levels by 24 months after ACLR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A total of 33 Division I collegiate athletes were identified between 2010 and 2021 (13 female) who underwent total body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) before sustaining an ACL injury. DXA was repeated at 6, 12, and 24 months after ACLR. Linear mixed effects models assessed differences in the BMD at 5%, 15%, and 50% of the femur's length (F₅, F₁₅, F₅₀) and at 5%, 15%, and 50% of the tibia's length (T₅, T₁₅, T₅₀) within each limb from before the injury to 24 months after ACLR, reported as Tukey-adjusted P values.

RESULTS

Compared with before the injury, the BMD at F₅ of the surgical limb was reduced by 0.15 g/cm² (SE, 0.02 g/cm²) at 6 months (P < .001). The BMD at F₁₅ of the surgical limb was reduced by 0.06 g/cm² (SE, 0.01 g/cm²), 0.09 g/cm² (SE, 0.01 g/cm²), and 0.09 g/cm² (SE, 0.01 g/cm²) at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively (all P < .001). The BMD at T₅ of the nonsurgical limb was reduced by 0.07 g/cm² (SE, 0.02 g/cm²) at 12 months (P = .02) and 0.10 g/cm² (SE, 0.02 g/cm²) at 24 months (P = .001). The BMD at T₁₅ of the surgical limb was reduced by 0.07 g/cm² (SE, 0.01 g/cm²) at 6 months and 0.08 g/cm² (SE, 0.02 g/cm²) at 12 months (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

BMD deficits at F₁₅ of the surgical limb persisted out to 24 months (-7.1%) after ACLR compared with before the injury in collegiate athletes. The BMD at F₅ and T₁₅ of the surgical limb was reduced at 6 and 12 months but not at 24 months compared with preinjury levels. For the nonsurgical limb, no significant differences were detected, except for the T₅ region at 12 months (-5.1%) and 24 months (-7.2%). The BMD at F₅₀ and T₅₀ of both limbs was not significantly different than preinjury levels at any time after ACLR.

Home-based and remote functional exercise testing in cardiac conditions, during the covid-19 pandemic and beyond: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

With the change in healthcare to one that adopts a greater reliance on remote delivery, guidance regarding functional exercise testing, either in-person in the home or performed remotely, is urgently needed for people with cardiac conditions.

OBJECTIVES

To identify functional exercise tests that have been conducted in the home or remotely in patients with cardiac conditions.

DATA SOURCES

A search was undertaken across four electronic databases and grey literature for English language publications without time restrictions.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies of any designs were selected if they reported an exercise test conducted at home or remotely in patients with cardiac conditions.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS

Studies were independently screened and graded by two reviewers according to the Downs and Black checklist. A narrative synthesis of the included studies was undertaken.

RESULTS

Five studies (six articles) were included, with a total of 438 patients with cardiac conditions. Tests used at home or remotely were the 6-minute walk test (6MWT, five studies) and the timed up and go test (one study). No studies reported the use of step tests in the home or remotely. The 6MWTs were administered via a smartphone application, rope, videoconferencing and accelerometer and proved to be feasible, valid and reliable.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a marked demand for home-based exercise programs, the 6MWT remains the most commonly administered functional exercise test for people with cardiac conditions. Surprisingly few studies have explored alternative tests for this patient population that may be more suitable for home or remote performance.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO: CRD42020219512.

Quality of life during the wait for ruptured anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial

Background:

There is a lack of prospective evidence to guide surgeons when making recommendations about the appropriate timing of surgical intervention for ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), activity modifications to reduce the risk of secondary injury before surgery, and the short- and long-term risks associated with delayed ACL reconstruction. This study aimed to determine whether longer wait times are associated with a prolonged decrease in quality of life and an increased incidence of secondary joint injury after ACL rupture.

Methods:

We recruited 53 patients who presented between 2013 and 2017 at a single sports medicine minor injury clinic with a suspected acute ACL rupture, based on clinical examination; ACL rupture was confirmed on magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were randomly allocated to undergo early reconstruction (< 12 wk after injury) or reconstruction after a regular wait time (≥ 12 wk). We compared scores on the ACL quality of life measure (ACL-QOL) and the incidence of secondary knee injury at baseline and at surgery between the 2 groups. Participants also completed the Tegner scale (level of activity) at the time of consent and within 7 days before surgery.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients were randomly assigned to the early surgery group and 25 patients to the regular wait time group. There was no difference in mean age between the 2 groups. There were no between-group differences in mean ACL-QOL score at the time of injury (28.5 [standard deviation (SD) 12.5] v. 28.5 [SD 12.6]) or at surgery (34.9 [SD 17.5] v. 38.0 [SD 17.5]). The mean wait time was significantly longer in the regular wait time group than in the early surgery group (29.6 wk [SD 13.2 wk] v. 10.6 wk [SD 5.1 wk], p = 0.001). In both groups, Tegner scale scores were significantly lower after than before ACL rupture (p < 0.001) and remained low while patients waited for surgery. There were no between-group differences in the incidence of chondral or meniscal injury at surgery, although the study was not adequately powered to draw any statistical conclusions.

Conclusion:

Wait time for ACL reconstruction may affect patients’ quality of life, as it remained diminished for a longer period when surgery was delayed. A low activity level during the waiting period was observed in both groups; this low activity level may be one reason why no between-group differences in the incidence of secondary injury were observed. The findings suggest that patients with a limited activity level during the waiting period have a low risk of secondary injuries.

Reliability of a Novel Automatic Knee Arthrometer for Measuring Knee Laxity After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Ruptures

Background:

The accuracy of existing devices for measuring knee laxity is adversely affected by examiner reliability.

Purpose:

To compare the accuracy of a novel automatic knee arthrometer (AKA) to that of the KT-2000 arthrometer for measuring knee laxity after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

We measured anterior displacement and the anterior displacement difference (ADD) at 134 N of anterior force in 221 healthy volunteers and 200 patients with ACL ruptures. All trials were performed by the same 2 examiners. We first analyzed the effects of examiner, side assessed, and device type using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), t test, and F test. We then used the receiver operating characteristic curve to compare the diagnostic value of the measurements between devices.

Results:

In repeated measurements for a single healthy volunteer, there were no differences in the variance of the measurements between sides according to the AKA (standard deviation of right vs left knee for examiner A: 0.43 vs 0.58 mm, respectively [P = .39]; for examiner B: 0.49 vs 0.77 mm, respectively [P = .81]), while the KT-2000 measurements showed differences (standard deviation of right vs left knee for examiner A: 1.47 vs 0.80 mm, respectively [P = .02]; for examiner B: 1.78 vs 0.91 mm, respectively [P = .01]). The ADD assessed by the AKA was not significantly different between examiners A and B (0.50 vs 0.75 mm, respectively; P = .27; ICC = 0.83), but the KT-2000 showed a difference (1.07 vs 2.01 mm, respectively; P = .01; ICC = 0.55). The ADD of 20 healthy volunteers assessed by the AKA was less than that by the KT-2000 (0.98 vs 1.41 mm, respectively; P = .04). When comparing the diagnostic value of the 2 devices in the sample of 200 patients with ACL ruptures and 200 healthy controls, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the AKA was larger than that for the KT-2000 (0.93 vs 0.87, respectively; P ≤ .01), and the threshold values were 1.75 and 2.73 mm, respectively.

Conclusion:

The AKA can be used to determine the degree of knee laxity in ACL injuries and to provide indications for treatment.

The subjective knee value is a valid single-item survey to assess knee function in common knee disorders

INTRODUCTION

The patient's perspective plays a key role in judging the effect of knee disorders on physical function. We have introduced the Subjective Knee Value (SKV) to simplify the evaluation of individual's knee function by providing one simple question. The purpose of this prospective study was to validate the SKV with accepted multiple-item knee surveys across patients with orthopaedic knee disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January through March 2020, consecutive patients (n = 160; mean age 51 ± 18 years, range from 18 to 85 years, 54% women) attending the outpatient clinic for knee complaints caused by osteoarthritis (n = 69), meniscal lesion (n = 45), tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (n = 23) and focal chondral defect (n = 23) were invited to complete a knee-specific survey including the SKV along with the Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee form (IKDC-S). The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate external validity between the SKV and each patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) separately. Furthermore, patient's compliance was assessed by comparing responding rates.

RESULTS

Overall, the SKV highly correlated with both the KOOS (R = 0.758, p < 0.05) and the IKDC-S (R = 0.802, p < 0.05). This was also demonstrated across all investigated diagnosis- and demographic-specific (gender, age) subgroups (range 0.509-0.936). No relevant floor/ceiling effects were noticed. The responding rate for the SKV (96%) was significantly higher when compared with those for the KOOS (81%) and the IKDC-S (83%) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

At baseline, the SKV exhibits acceptable validity across all investigated knee-specific PROMs in a broad patient population with a wide array of knee disorders. The simplified survey format without compromising the precision to evaluate individual's knee function justifies implementation in daily clinical practice.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II, cohort study (diagnosis).

"I don't opt out of things because I think I will get a sore knee, but I don't expose myself to stupid risks either": patients' experiences of a second ACL injury-an interview study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe women's experiences with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and a subsequent ACL rupture, and to identify potential facilitators and barriers for coping with rehabilitation after the second injury.

METHODS

Eight women between 17 and 36 years (mean 26, SD 6.5) who had experienced ACLR, followed by another ACL rupture, participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

One overarching theme, "Rehabilitation after a second ACL injury-A lifelong adaptive coping process", emerged from analyses. Undergoing a second rehabilitation is described as a process of adaptation, beginning with the first injury and still ongoing, more than 5 years later. Participants applied different coping strategies to adapt to these life-altering injuries, but the common denominator was of major life adjustments with no return to previous activity levels. Initially, after the reinjury, it was about coping with the catastrophe of the dreaded second injury. Over time, they accepted their "new" life and reset their recovery/rehabilitation goal not just as "return to sport" but rather as a "personal life goal".

CONCLUSION

Undergoing a second ACL injury is a long process that challenges the patient's coping skills. Given these results, rehabilitation programs need to be more person centred according to the patients-adjusted life goals.

Anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention in sport: biomechanically informed approaches

This paper reviews a series of studies contributing to a framework for preventing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in sport. As the majority of these injuries are non-contact in nature, theoretically, these injuries are preventable. The studies presented in this paper focus on understanding biomechanical countermeasures of ACL injury and how this knowledge can inform both screening and training intervention research and practice in sport. These countermeasures include: 1) modifying an athlete's technique to reduce externally applied loads to the knee; 2) increasing the muscle support around the knee and hip to counter elevated loads applied to the knee and; 3) improving an athlete's perception during dynamic sports tasks to increase planning time to coordinate desirable movement patterns. By furthering the empirical evidence of modifiable biomechanical countermeasures of ACL injury risk, we can better understand best practices for developing interventions on a mass scale to prevent ACL injuries in the sporting community.

Analgesic Impact of a Popliteal Plexus Block to Standard Adductor Canal Block in Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Blind Clinical Trial

Background

Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is crippling and often requires an arthroscopic outpatient surgery. Nevertheless, many patients experience severe pain during the first day after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). The adductor canal block (ACB) has yielded conflicting results for post-ACLR pain relief. This research investigated the effect of a supplemental popliteal plexus block on postoperative pain outcomes compared to a sole ACB.

Methods

Following a randomized design, 60 cases scheduled for knee arthroscopy with ACLR using an ipsilateral hamstring graft were separated into two categories. Subjects in group A (n = 30) received an ACB only, while subjects in group B (n = 30) received combined ACB and popliteal plexus block (PPB).

Results

We found significant differences between the two groups. The time of the first analgesic request (TFR) was later for the combined ACB and PPB (median 8 h) compared to the ACB only group (median 0.5 h). Morphine consumption was lower for patients who received combined ACB and PPB (median 12 mg) compared to ACB only (median 30 mg). The number of the requested doses was lower for the combined ACB and PPB group (median 3 doses) compared to the ACB only group (median 7 doses).

Conclusions

The addition of PPB to ACB was associated with improved analgesia and a reduced need for opioid-based sedatives following ACLR with an ipsilateral hamstring graft (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04020133).

Fear of Reinjury Following Surgical and Nonsurgical Management of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: An Exploratory Analysis of the NACOX Multicenter Longitudinal Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare fear and certainty of reinjury between follow-up time points and treatment groups (no anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] reconstruction [no ACLR], pre-ACLR, post-ACLR) and to identify prognostic factors for fear of reinjury at 3 and 12 months following injury or ACLR.

METHODS

An exploratory analysis of the Natural Corollaries and Recovery After ACL-injury multicenter longitudinal cohort study was conducted. Patients (n = 275) with primary ACL injury and 15 to 40 years of age received usual care (initial physical therapist-supervised rehabilitation, before considering ACLR). Fear of reinjury (as measured with the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Quality of Life instrument [ACL-QOL] item 31 and the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport After Injury instrument [ACL-RSI] item 9) and certainty of reinjury (as measured with the Knee Self-Efficacy Scale item D2) were evaluated at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months following ACL injury or ACLR. Comparisons were performed with linear mixed models. Linear regression assessed potential prognostic factors (age, sex, preinjury activity, baseline knee function, baseline general self-efficacy, and expected recovery time) for fear of reinjury (ACL-QOL item 31) at the 3- and 12-month follow-up assessments.

RESULTS

Fear of reinjury was common regardless of ACL treatment. Fear of reinjury decreased between 3 and 6 months and 3 and 12 months (mean difference: ACL-QOL = 9 [95% CI = 2 to 15]; ACL-RSI = 21 [95% CI = 13 to 28]) after injury. This improvement was not observed in patients who later underwent ACLR, who reported worse fear of reinjury at 3 months (ACL-QOL = 10 [95% CI = 3 to 18]) and at 12 months (ACL-RSI = 22 [95% CI = 2 to 42]) postinjury compared with those who did not proceed to ACLR. Following ACLR, fear of reinjury decreased between the 3- and 12-month follow-up assessments (ACL-QOL = 10 [95% CI = 4 to 16]; ACL-RSI = 12 [95% CI = 5 to 19]). Greater baseline general self-efficacy was associated with reduced fear of reinjury at 12 months after injury (adjusted coefficient = 1.7 [95% CI = 0.0 to 3.5]). Female sex was related to more fear of reinjury 3 months after ACLR (-14.5 [95% CI = -25.9 to -3.1]), and better baseline knee function was related to reduced fear of reinjury 12 months after ACLR (0.3 [95% CI = 0.0 to 0.7]).

CONCLUSION

People who had ACLR reported worse fear of reinjury before surgery than those who did not proceed to ACLR. Different prognostic factors for fear of reinjury were identified in people treated with ACLR and those treated with rehabilitation alone.

IMPACT

Fear of reinjury is a concern following ACL injury. Clinicians should evaluate and address reinjury fears. These results may assist in identifying individuals at risk of fear of reinjury following surgical and nonsurgical management of ACL injury.

Ultrasound examination of tibiofibular widening of forceful knee flexion is recommended for patients with proximal tibiofibular joint instability

BACKGROUND

Proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) instability is uncommon, resulting from violent twisting motions of the flexed knee during sport activities. No known image variables functionally relate the degrees of PTFJ instability.

OBJECTIVE

This study used ultrasound imaging to quantify the discrimination threshold for PTFJ instability and relevant functional significances.

METHODS

Twenty patients (mean age: 42.7 (21-59) years) with chronic PTFJ instability participated in this study. Along with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS),the tibiofibular distances of the affected and unaffected knees were estimated with ultrasonography in the four standardized conditions at 90° of flexion of the hip and knee, including neutrally relaxed position, passive internal rotation, passive external rotation, and forceful flexion of the knee joint.

RESULTS

During forceful knee flexion, the absolute tibiofibular distance in the affected leg (28.1 ± 4.0 mm) was greater than the unaffected leg (25.1 ± 3.7 mm). Relative changes in tibiofibular distance (RTFD) were different for both legs (affected leg:3.9 ± 2.7 mm; unaffected leg:1.0 ± 1.4 mm) (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve for the RTFD was a potent predictor of PTFJ instability (84.5%) with specificity of 95% and sensitivity of 65%. Patients with RTFD greater than 2.95 mm exhibited higher scores on the KOOS subscales of pain (P = 0.043) and quality of life (P = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonic measurement of the tibiofibular distance under forceful knee flexion is clinically valuable for diagnosing PTFJ instability with functional significance.

High Rate of Overlapping Question Content Among Commonly Used Patient-Reported Outcome Measurements for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Purpose

To precisely compare the questions and content between the most commonly cited knee-specific patient-reported outcome measurements (PROs) for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Methods

A literature review through Medline from November 1, 2018, to November 1, 2020, was performed to find the most cited knee-specific PROs for assessment of ACL injuries. Each question was then classified as 1) identical, similar, or unique; 2) pertaining to 1 of 6 domains (pain, symptoms, functional activities, occupational activities, sports/recreation, and quality of life). The PROs were then compared to each other to assess question overlap and domain coverage.

Results

A total of 133 questions were analyzed from the seven most common PROs: International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) form, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, Tegner Activity Scale, Marx Scale, Knee Outcome Survey (KOS), and Cincinnati Knee Rating System (CKRS). The total distribution of identical (31.6%), similar (31.6%), and unique (36.8%) questions was found to be relatively even. However, this distribution varied within each PRO. KOS and Lysholm had the highest percentages of identical questions (64% and 62.5%, respectively). KOOS had the highest number of unique questions (26/42, 61.9%), while Tegner held the highest percentage (11/16, 68.8%). Sports/recreation was the only domain assessed by all PROs.

Conclusion

Nearly two-thirds of questions overlap between the commonly used PROs for ACL injury. Although sports/recreation is assessed by all PROs, each has its own pattern of coverage across this and other domains.

Level of Evidence

IV, cross-sectional study.

Prognostic factors for tibiofemoral and patellofemoral osteoarthritis 32-37 years after anterior cruciate ligament injury managed with early surgical repair or rehabilitation alone

OBJECTIVE

Explore prognostic factors for tibiofemoral (TFJ) and patellofemoral (PFJ) radiographic osteoarthritis (ROA) and 'symptoms plus ROA' (SOA), 32-37 years following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

DESIGN

Exploratory analysis, longitudinal cohort.

METHODS

In 1980-1985, 251 patients aged 15-40 years with acute ACL rupture were allocated to early augmented or non-augmented repair (5 ± 4 days post-injury) plus rehabilitation, or rehabilitation alone. 127 of 190 participants who completed follow-up questionnaires were eligible. We classified ROA as TFJ/PFJ K&L Grade ≥2, and SOA as ROA plus pain and/or symptoms. Multivariable age-adjusted logistic regression investigated potential prognostic factors (assessed at 4 ± 1 year follow-up: ACL treatment, isokinetic quadriceps/hamstrings strength, single-leg-hop for distance, knee flexion/extension deficit, knee laxity, Tegner Activity Scale, Lysholm Scale; sex, baseline meniscus status).

RESULTS

127 patients were aged 58 ± 6 years; BMI 27 ± 4 kg/m²; 28% female; 59% had TFJ-ROA, 48% had TFJ-SOA (including n = 9 knee-arthroplasties), 36% had PFJ-ROA; 27% had PFJ-SOA. Baseline meniscus surgery was a prognostic factor for TFJ-ROA (multivariable age-adjusted odds ratio (95% CI): 3.0 (1.2, 7.8)). A single-leg-hop limb symmetry index (LSI) < 90% was a prognostic factor for PFJ-ROA (5.1 (1.4, 18.7)) and PFJ-SOA (4.9 (1.2, 19.7)). Hamstrings strength LSI <90% was a prognostic factor for PFJ-SOA (5.0 (1.3, 19.3)). ACL treatment with rehabilitation-alone was associated with an 80% reduction in the odds of PFJ-SOA (0.2 (0.1-0.7)), compared with early ACL-repair.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings are hypothesis generating, research is needed to determine whether ACL-injured individuals with these characteristics benefit from interventions to prevent or delay the onset of osteoarthritis.

Femoral nerve versus adductor canal block for early postoperative pain control and knee function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring autografts: a prospective single-blind randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The optimal pain management strategy for postoperative pain after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) remains unclear. This study compared femoral nerve block (FNB) and adductor canal block (ACB) for pain management of early postoperative pain, knee function, and recovery of activity of daily living (ADL) after ACLR using hamstring autografts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this prospective, single-blind, randomised controlled trial, 64 patients aged 12-56 years who underwent anatomical double-bundle ACLR with a hamstring autograft between August 2019 and May 2020 were randomised to undergo preoperative FNB (n = 32) or ACB (n = 32). The peripheral nerve block was performed by a single experienced anaesthesiologist under ultrasound guidance. The primary outcomes were postoperative pain as evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively and the need for pain relief. The secondary outcome was knee function, including the recovery of range of motion, contraction of the vastus medialis, and stable walking with a double-crutch (ADL), as evaluated by blinded physical therapists.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patient demographics between the two groups. The VAS scores, need for pain relief, knee function, and ADL did not significantly differ between the groups.

CONCLUSION

FNB and ACB provided comparable outcomes related to early postoperative pain, knee function, and ADL after double-bundle ACLR using hamstring autografts. Further research is necessary to evaluate the mid- to long-term effect of each block on recovery of knee function and ADL.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.