Management of anterior cruciate ligament tears in skeletally immature athletes. Issue 4 (2nd October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ludwig, Meryl; Atanda, Alfred
• Is Part Of: Physician and sportsmedicine. Volume 43:Issue 4(2015)
• Page Start: 440
• Page End: 447
• Publication Date: 2015-10-02
• Subjects: Anterior cruciate ligament -- leg length inequality -- physeal disturbances -- skeletal immaturity; Sports medicine -- Periodicals; Sports Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine du sport -- Périodiques; Sports medicine; Sportgeneeskunde; Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2015.1084213
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0091-3847

Abstract

Abstract: The prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in skeletally immature athletes has increased dramatically over the past decade. Many attribute this to increased training, single-sport specialization and year-round competitive play. ACL injuries most commonly occur in athletic activities that involve cutting, pivoting, jumping and landing. Non-operative treatment consisting of activity modification, physical therapy and specialized bracing may have a role; however, recent data suggest that this may not be optimal in young, active patients. Surgical treatment has become more favorable, specifically for athletes with aspirations of higher-level sports participation. To minimize growth plate disturbances and potential for limb malalignment, the patient's skeletal age, pubertal status and remaining growth potential must be taken into consideration. We provide a review on how to evaluate, manage and treat the skeletally immature athlete with an ACL injury.