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Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine
Published in: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine 4/2020

01-08-2020 | Cruciate Ligament Injury | Hot Topics

Contralateral Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries Following Index Reconstruction in the Pediatric Athlete

Authors: Benjamin T. Gaal, Derrick M. Knapik, Michael R. Karns, Michael J. Salata, James E. Voos

Published in: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine | Issue 4/2020

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to discuss relevant anatomy and pathoanatomy in the knee following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, risk factors for contralateral ACL tear, and mechanisms of contralateral injuries in the pediatric population.

Recent Findings

Contralateral ACL rupture rates following ACL reconstruction (ACLR) range from 4% to 42%. Pediatric patients show increased risk compared with adults, likely due to inherent anatomical differences along with biomechanical and neuromuscular changes that occur in both the operative and contralateral knees following index ACLR. Pediatric athletes who return to sport more quickly have been found to be at increased risk for contralateral tears, as have athletes who participate in cutting and pivoting sports. Contralateral tears tend to occur via non-contact mechanisms.

Summary

Pediatric patients are at increased risk of contralateral ACL injury following index ACL reconstruction compared with adults. Further study is warranted to determine appropriate biologic, functional, and rehabilitative parameters gauged toward preventing contralateral ACL tear while minimizing time lost from sport.
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Metadata
Title
Contralateral Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries Following Index Reconstruction in the Pediatric Athlete
Authors
Benjamin T. Gaal
Derrick M. Knapik
Michael R. Karns
Michael J. Salata
James E. Voos
Publication date
01-08-2020
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine / Issue 4/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1935-9748
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-020-09652-w

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