Early Degenerative Change After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Augmentation of the Knee: A Case Report

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is performed to improve activities of daily living and return to sports. However, it remains to be proven whether ACL reconstruction can prevent later development of Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA).

A 36-year-old male presented with moderate right knee pain and gait disturbance persisting for approximately three months. Arthroscopic examination revealed a slightly lax ACL and a medial meniscal tear. ACL augmentation using a 7-mm single-bundle semitendinosus tendon graft and partial medial meniscectomy was performed. Five months postoperatively, mild knee pain occurred at his work. Magnetic resonance imaging showed osteoarthritic change in the medial tibiofemoral joint. Conservative treatment, including muscle exercises and dietary weight loss were initiated. One year postoperatively, the patient was almost asymptomatic and had resumed daily activities.

ACL reconstruction can improve knee stability in ACL-deficient knees. However, it could not delay the later development of Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA) completely. Meniscus status and body mass index may be risk factors for PTOA after ACL reconstruction in this case.