Dynamics of the increase in strength and girth of quadriceps muscle after the reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction is the method of choice in the treatment of ACL rupture. Postoperative rehabilitation is a very important aspect of therapeutic management. One of priority elements is to regain proper strength and function of the quadriceps muscle in a short time. The aim of this study was to estimate the dynamics of the increase in strength and girth of quadriceps after ACL reconstruction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The examined group consisted of 30 patients who had undergone arthroscopic assisted quadruple bundle dual channel ACL reconstruction surgery in years 2010-2011. The average age of the patients at the time of operation was 31.7 years (range 17-53). Each patient was examined 4 times: before the surgery as well as in the second, sixth and twelfth week after the reconstruction.

RESULTS: Examination revealed a significant increase in quadriceps girth, with peak increase rate observed within the two first weeks after the surgery. Between weeks 2 and 6, a decrease in quadriceps girth was observed followed by repeated increase worm week 6 on. The greatest increase in the girth at the thickest point of the muscle was observed in rehabilitation weeks 6 through 12. A significant decrease in muscle strength was observed in the first 2 weeks after the surgery. In the remaining periods, the strength of the quadriceps muscle continued to grow. The average KSS score increased from 109.1 at week 2 to 162.3 at week 12 after the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS: Rehabilitation results in a dynamic increase in the strength of quadriceps between weeks 6 and 12 following reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament. However, the 12-week rehabilitation period is not sufficient to regain full functionality.