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Subject Area

Radiology

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to spotlight on the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the assessment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction graft & detection of its complications.

Background: ACL is the most frequently reported injured knee ligament that requires surgical reconstruction. MR imaging is the modality of choice for evaluation of ACL graft reconstruction surgery & assessment of its complication.

Patient & methods: This prospective study was conducted on 100 patients with post-operative knee reconstruction of the ACL. All patients were subjected to clinical history followed by MRI examination. MRI examination of the knee was performed in axial, coronal and sagittal planes. Patients were positioned in the supine position with the knee placed in 10–15° of external rotation, surface coil was applied. Different MRI Sequences were obtained.

Results: According to our results; out of the studied patients 66 cases (66%) showed an intact ACL graft. The commonest post ACL reconstruction complication was osteoarthritis being noticed in 21 cases (21%) of the studied patients. The 2nd most common complication was complete graft tear where it was observed in 15 cases (15%). The least common complications were the graft laxity and ilio-tibial band syndrome; each was seen in one case representing only 1% for each.

Conclusion: We conclude that MRI is the gold standard method for evaluation of post-operative ACL reconstruction as it plays an important role not only in the assessment of graft integrity, but also in detection of the post-operative ACL reconstruction complications.

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