title: Rehabilitation considerations for all epiphyseal acl reconstruction.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The management of the pediatric patient with an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) rupture is evolving towards earlier reconstruction. The rehabilitation progression and outcomes for skeletally immature individuals undergoing ACL reconstruction (ACL-R) are not well described in the literature. Differences in surgical procedure, age related physiology, and emotional maturity may have a significant impact on recovery and return to sports. The purpose of this case report is to present the rehabilitation and outcome of a skeletally immature patient that underwent an all-epiphyseal ACL-R, highlight important considerations in the rehabilitation process and present topics for future research.
  
  
  METHODS
  Single subject case report of an 8 year-old boy who underwent all epiphyseal ACL-R after complete ACL rupture.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The patient was able to achieve at least 90% strength symmetry and pass all necessary functional criteria to return to sports by 9 months post surgery. Two year follow up data indicated that the patient was able to make a full return to previous level of athletic activity, as well as maintain lower extremity strength and power over time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Objective outcome measures, rehabilitation protocols and time frame for return to sports for skeletally immature patients following physeal sparing or all epiphyseal ACL-R are not well described in the literature. This case report outlines objective measures of strength and functional recovery in a patient from this unique population. As ACL-R in the skeletally immature patient is studied more, new information on rehabilitation progression and outcomes may alter the rehabilitation program and timeline for return to unrestricted activity.
  
  
  METHODS
  4, Case Report.
authors.forename: Elliot M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Greenberg
authors.forename: Jeffrey
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Albaugh
authors.forename: Theodore J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Ganley
authors.forename: J Todd R
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Lawrence