Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare two different strategies of management for ACL rupture in skeletally immature patient. In group 1, patients were treated in a children hospital by ACL reconstruction with open physis. In group 2, patients were treated in an adult hospital by delayed reconstruction at skeletal maturity assessed radiologically. Fifty-six consecutive patients were included in this retrospective study. Mean time from injury to surgery in group 1 and 2 was, respectively, 13.5 and 30 months. Patients from group 2 exhibited a higher rate of medial meniscal tears (41%) compare to group 1 (16%) and higher rate of meniscectomy. Both groups had the same rate of lateral meniscal tears. A temporary tibial valgus deformity was reported which was subsequently spontaneously resolved. No definitive growth disturbance was noticed. At 27 months mean follow-up, a best subjective IKDC score was found in group 1. Objective IKDC and radiological results were similar in both groups. Early ACL reconstruction is therefore a recommended option.
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Acknowledgments
We wish to thank Dr. Rollier for his contribution during this study and the Department of Biostatistics of the Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lacassagne F-69424, France.
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Henry, J., Chotel, F., Chouteau, J. et al. Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in children: early reconstruction with open physes or delayed reconstruction to skeletal maturity?. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 17, 748–755 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-009-0741-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-009-0741-0