Comparing Clinical and Functional Results After ACL Reconstruction Versus Primary Repair Surgery in Adults Aged 18 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the clinical and functional outcomes of two surgical techniques used to treat anterior cruciate ligament ACL injuries ACL reconstruction and arthroscopic primary repair. This observational study aims to compare postoperative muscle strength, endurance, proprioception, knee stability, and patient-reported outcomes between these two approaches. The goal is to understand how each surgical method affects neuromuscular performance and functional recovery over the medium to long term. Participants include individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction or primary repair surgery at least 12 months prior, along with a healthy control group. Assessments are performed over two days and include muscle strength and fatigue testing using the Cybex Norm isokinetic dynamometer, muscle oxygenation analysis with Train.Red NIRS, knee proprioception tests, postural control and landing evaluations on the KFORCE force platform, and knee laxity measurement with the GNRB arthrometer. Patient-reported outcomes such as the International Knee Documentation Committee IKDC and ACL Return to Sport Index ACL-RSI are also collected. Participants provide demographic and injury history information and complete questionnaires on physical activity and knee function. Researchers measure peak torque, muscle fatigue, muscle oxygenation, joint proprioception, balance, dynamic stability, and knee laxity. The study evaluates these outcomes to inform individualized rehabilitation approaches and develop evidence-based return-to-sport criteria. The total study duration includes assessments scheduled after participants are at least one year postoperative, with data collection completed over two days.

Clinical and Functional Outcomes After ACL Reconstruction Versus Primary Repair