Abstract
We evaluated leg rotation and knee stability after ACL reconstruction (modified over-the-top method using patella tendon bone) using a three - dimensional analyzer. The study assessed 23 ACL reconstructed knees (10 male and 13 female patients) . Mean age at time of operation was 23.8 years. Leg rotation and knee stability were measured by Knee Motion Analyzer (CA 4000) pre-operatively and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post operatively. Qualitative evaluation of knee motion revealed 4 patterns of leg rotation. In Group 1 there was normal rotation of the leg (physiological screw home movement) . In Group 2 there was almost normal rotation but a decrease in external rotation at the end of knee extension. In Group 3 there was no external rotation. In Group 4 there was scarcely any rotation. Twelve cases (52.2%) were Group 4 at 6 months post-operatively. At 12 months, 18 cases (78.3%) were Group 1 and 2; only 4 cases were Group 4. We conclude that in ACL reconstructed knees establishment of stability in the AP dimension also leads to normal rotation of the leg.
