MR imaging of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction poor outcomes

PurposeIs to study the diagnostic value of MR imaging in assessment of poor outcomes of ACL reconstruction using second look arthroscopy of the knee as a gold standard.Patients and methods51 patients were included in this study who did ACL reconstruction followed by MRI and second look arthroscopy. Arthroscopy study was performed within 7–15 days from MR examination. The time interval between ACL reconstruction and MRI examination was 10 months to 9 years. MR images were evaluated for; (1) ACL graft failure assessing the primary and secondary signs, (2) Tibial and femoral tunnel location, and (3) Complication of ACL graft reconstruction. MR imaging results were compared with the arthroscopic results.ResultsSecond look arthroscopy revealed 23 patients with full- thickness ACL graft tears, 17 partial -thickness ACL graft tears and 11 intact ACL grafts. Complete ACL graft discontinuity, focal ACL graft thinning and preserved 100% graft thickness were the most valuable primary MRI signs in the diagnosis of full thickness ACL graft tear, partial tear and intact graft respectively.ConclusionWe found MR imaging to be reliable for the evaluation of ACL graft poor outcomes including graft failure and complications.