Lysholm score and Tegner activity level in individuals with normal knees

Abstract

Background: The Lysholm score and Tegner activity scale are commonly used to document outcomes after arthroscopic knee surgery. These outcomes measurements are subjective in nature and evaluate performance and activity restrictions both before and after surgery, making them a valuable research tool when judging the effectiveness of surgical treatment.

Purpose: To establish a normal knee data set for the Lysholm and Tegner rating systems, as well as to show how these scores are affected by age and gender.

Study design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: A subjective questionnaire that included both the Lysholm score and Tegner activity grading scale was completed by 488 subjects in the community who considered their knee function normal. Any subject reporting a history of injury or surgery was excluded from the study. The average age was 41 years (range, 18-85), with 244 men and 244 women qualifying for statistical analysis.

Results: The average Lysholm score was 94 (range, 43-100), and the average Tegner activity level was 5.7 (range, 1-10). The Lysholm score and age demonstrated no correlation. The Tegner activity level was inversely correlated with age. The average Tegner activity level for men was 6.0, and the average activity scale for women was 5.4. There was no significant difference in the Lysholm score between men and women.

Conclusion: These data acquired from a normal, healthy population provide a standard point of reference for the injured or postsurgical knee. These data also serve as ideal tools when counseling patients about realistic expectations after surgery, based on age and gender.