Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Nov 1996
[Meniscus lesions after isolated anterior cruciate ligament rupture].
In this retrospective study the meniscal status of 34 patients with untreated complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears is reported. The anterior cruciate ligament injury was initially documented by examination under anesthesia and arthroscopy. Treatment in all cases consisted of a standard protocol of early rehabilitation and bracing. ⋯ The remaining 4 patients had rearthroscopy 3.5 years after the ACL injury and a partial meniscectomy and ACL reconstruction was performed. 12 patients (35%) had no symptoms or signs of joint instability or meniscal pathology during the follow-up period, but discontinued their sporting activities. This study indicates the increasing incidence of meniscal tears during ACL insufficiency. We recommend that patients with ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament should be investigated for meniscal tears and that early ligament reconstruction of the knee and meniscal repair or partial meniscectomy should be considered simultaneously.