Abstract
Introduction: Though Cutaneous nerve injury following ACL reconstruction is a recognized complication, we identified an undescribed pattern of numbness involving the entire shin from the knee to the ankle.
Methods: A review of 143 Hamstrings ACL reconstructions performed between 1999 and 2004 was done. Mean age was 34.8 years (17–57) and the follow-up was 40.2 months (9–80).
Results: The patterns of numbness were classified into non-scar related and scar related. 76 patients (53 %) had non-scar related numbness. Among this 7 (5%) had numbness of the entire shin from the knee to the ankle. This pattern of numbness is significant considering the large area involved. 38 patients (27%) had scar related numbness.
Non-scar related numbness corresponded to the innervation of the branches of the Saphenous nerve. Only 39% of patients with non-scar related numbness and 47% with scar related numbness recovered completely. None of the patients who had numbness of the entire shin recovered. Interestingly only 3 patients reported that this numbness bothered them.
Conclusion: Anatomical studies have shown that it is difficult to identify a safe zone for tendon harvest. Efforts should be made to minimize the risk of such nerve damage, by making the incision more horizontal and keeping the knee in flexion while harvesting the graft. Patients should be warned of this complication while taking consent.
Correspondence should be addressed to Ms Larissa Welti, Scientific Secretary, EFORT Central Office, Technoparkstrasse 1, CH-8005 Zürich, Switzerland
