Anterior medial meniscal root avulsions due to malposition of the tibial tunnel during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: two case reports

Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2014 May;22(5):1119-23. doi: 10.1007/s00167-014-2868-x. Epub 2014 Jan 31.

Abstract

The meniscal roots are essential for preserving the native biomechanical and structural properties of the tibiofemoral joint. Meniscus root avulsions, which disrupt the normal meniscus anchoring points, have been reported to result in deleterious biomechanics and clinical outcomes. In this series, two cases of iatrogenic medial meniscus anterior root avulsions after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction are reported. Iatrogenic medial meniscus anterior root avulsions after malpositioning of the tibial tunnels during ACL reconstruction have not been previously reported in the literature and may account for poor long-term outcomes seen in some patients after ACL reconstruction. Therefore, careful attention must be paid to correct tibial tunnel placement during ACL reconstruction.

Level of evidence: Case series, Level IV.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Joint Instability / diagnosis*
  • Joint Instability / etiology
  • Joint Instability / surgery
  • Knee Injuries / surgery*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Menisci, Tibial / surgery
  • Reoperation
  • Tibia / surgery*
  • Tibial Meniscus Injuries*
  • Young Adult