title: Can we predict the outcome of a partial rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament? A prospective study of 43 cases.
abstract: The concept of partial rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has been confirmed by arthroscopic examination and palpation. We present a prospective study of 43 patients who were diagnosed arthroscopically as suffering from a partial rupture of the ACL by the same surgeon. The patients followed a rehabilitation protocol and were examined by an independent observer after 5 years. Twenty-five patients had a stable knee, whereas 18 eventually suffered a complete ACL rupture. ACL partial rupture is easily recognizable with arthroscopy, but the quantity and state of the still intact fibres is difficult to assess.
authors.affiliation: Policlinique de Chirurgie, Hôpital Cantonal Universitaire, Genève, Switzerland.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fritschy
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Panoussopoulos
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Wallensten
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Peter
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D001182:Arthroscopy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011379:Prognosis; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012421:Rupture / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation; D016896:Treatment Outcome