Loss of Motion after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

We investigated the loss of motion (LOM) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. 105 patients underwent ACL recons space truction between 1989 and 1993. LOM was defined as a loss of extension of more than 10° or flexion of less than 125° at 3 months after Surgery. The incidence of LOM was identified in 19 patients (18%). Risk factors were associated with females and the type of graft (patella tendon>semitendinosus). The etiology of LOM at postoperative arthroscopy was classified as intercondylar notch scarring in 11 of 13 patients (85%). All of these patients underwent arthroscopic debridement and all improved. We concluded that arthroscopic debridement is useful for patients who develop LOM after ACL reconstruction.