Epidemiology of recurrent anterior cruciate ligament injuries according to sport type

Abstract

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the two cruciate ligaments that helps to strengthen the knee joint. It is a common knee injury, which often occurs in sports players. There is no bias against age or gender; however, it has been suggested in literature that women are at increased risk of secondary ACL injury. These injuries can have serious consequences for an injured athlete, including high medical costs, long off playing time, and an elevated chance of developing early osteoarthritis. Recurrent ACL injuries are described as injuries that occur in the same knee which has been previously treated. A recurrent ACL may be the result of a severe injury to the same position, graft failure, or an improper surgical procedure. Studies have reported significant prevalence of recurrent ACL. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about the epidemiology of recurrent ACL injuries. Athletes returning to sports field within two years of injury have higher chance of recurrent ACL injury. Variable prevalence of recurrent ACL injuries is reported in literature and limited studies are available. The young age, high level of exposure to physical activity, and the use of allograft all increase the chances of further ACL injury. Future population-based epidemiological studies can be beneficial and are need of time.