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Review
. 2016 Jun;9(2):170-7.
doi: 10.1007/s12178-016-9339-6.

Knee instability scores for ACL reconstruction

Ata A Rahnemai-Azar  1   2 , Jan-Hendrik Naendrup  1   2 , Ashish Soni  1 , Adam Olsen  1 , Jason Zlotnicki  1   2 , Volker Musahl  3   4
Affiliations
Review

Knee instability scores for ACL reconstruction

Ata A Rahnemai-Azar et al. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2016 Jun.

Abstract

Despite abundant biological, biomechanical, and clinical research, return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury remains a significant challenge. Residual rotatory knee laxity has been identified as one of the factors responsible for poor functional outcome. To improve and standardize the assessment of knee instability, a variety of instability scoring systems is available. Recently, devices to objectively quantify static and dynamic clinical exams have been developed to complement traditional subjective grading systems. These devices enable an improved evaluation of knee instability and possible associated injuries. This additional information may promote the development of new treatment algorithms and allow for individualized treatment. In this review, the different subjective laxity scores as well as complementary objective measuring systems are discussed, along with an introduction of injury to an individualized treatment algorithm.

Keywords: ACL; Anterior cruciate ligament; Laxity scores; Quantitative pivot shift test; Treatment algorithm.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Testing set-up for the quantitative pivot shift measurement. For image analysis, technology markers are attached to the bony landmarks fibular head, Gerdy’s tubercle, and femoral epicondyle to quantify lateral compartment translation. Inertial sensors are attached to the shin using a Velcro strap. Both systems use tablet-software to wirelessly acquire and analysis the data
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Quantitative pivot shift data for 30 ACL-injured patients. The dotted lines represent the median number for acceleration and translation, respectively. Outliers might require further treatment in addition to anatomic ACL reconstruction
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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