The anterior cruciate ligament clinical pathway: Towards a systematic evaluation of ACL injured patients.

SummaryPurpose To systematically record pre-and post-operative clinical data after ACL reconstruction in an institutional clinical pathway. Material and methods From 2011 to 2014, 285 patients had an ACL reconstruction with a bone patellar tendon bone (BPTB) (n = 123) or a hamstring (HS) (n = 162) auto-graft. Isokinetic quadriceps and hamstrings force, anterior and rotational knee laxity, hop tests and subjective knee function were evaluated. Results All outcomes improved significantly throughout the follow-up. Anterior knee laxity was significantly improved by ACL reconstruction (p < 0.01). Quadriceps force deficit was significantly greater in BPTB group compared to HS group at all time points (p < 0.01). The same holds true for functional performance (p < 0.05). Discussion and conclusion The present study highlighted the progression of ACL-reconstructed patients throughout their rehabilitation. The results of this institutional clinical pathway may serve as an internal and external benchmark, as well as a potential baseline to individualize patient care including return-to-sports.