Abstract
Review of 133 cases of Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction, showed 91 cases had been arthroscoped twice. The incidence of meniscus pathology, at first arthroscopy was 71% and this fell to 63% at the second arthroscopy and reconstruction. 21% of recurrent tears were in previously undamaged menisci. The medial meniscus, was the most commonly damaged meniscus, at the time of the first arthroscopy. The incidence of lateral and bilateral meniscus pathology increased in the time period awaiting ACL reconstruction. The mean time between the two arthroscopies were 27 months. Damaged menisci continued to tear over the time period between first and second arthroscopies or new pathology occurred. The paper concludes that if ACL reconstruction is performed by a mini open technique then it should be re-arthroscoped immediately before the ACL reconstruction. This is essential to avoid missing meniscus pathology, even in previously arthroscoped knees.
The abstracts were prepared by Mr Roger Smith. Correspondence should be addressed to him c/o British Orthopaedic Association, Royal College of Surgeons, 35-42 Lindoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN.
