Update on paediatric ACL injuries

Knee. 2006 Oct;13(5):345-52. doi: 10.1016/j.knee.2006.06.001. Epub 2006 Jul 21.

Abstract

In the last two decades there has been an increase in the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in children. This may be due to increased awareness, more participation in high demand contact and non-contact sports at an earlier age and better diagnosis as a result of better imaging. A review of the literature suggests that the long-term results of non-operative treatment are poor. While the short to medium-term results of ACL reconstruction in children are encouraging, the long-term results are unknown. In this review, the current trends in the management of paediatric ACL injuries are discussed with particular emphasis on the natural history, surgical techniques, the effect of surgery on the growth plate and complications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries*
  • Child
  • Growth Plate / growth & development
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Knee Injuries / classification
  • Knee Injuries / diagnosis
  • Knee Injuries / therapy*
  • Orthopedic Procedures / adverse effects
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Tendons / transplantation