Conservative vs surgical management of congenital ACL aplasia--which is more effective in improving pain and stability?

Author

Alexa Mull, University of the PacificFollow

Date of Award

4-1-2019

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies

Department

Physician Assistant Education

First Advisor

Rahnea Sunseri

Abstract

There is currently no consensus on the treatment of congenital absence of the ACL. The rarity of congenital ACL aplasia precludes large randomized controlled trials which might determine what therapy is superior. This paper examines the limited medical literature available to compare surgical vs conservative therapies in patients with congenital ACL aplasia in order to produce a practical recommendation. Review of the literature shows inconsistent outcomes in terms of stability and pain after ACL construction and conservative management in patients with congenital ACL aplasia. Conservative measures may be sufficient to resolve symptoms of pain and instability but are not always enough. Surgical intervention can also be beneficial but is not without risk. The evidence from the literature suggests that the conservative treatment and patient education should be attempted first, and surgical treatment be considered on a case by case basis depending on the severity of symptoms and associated abnormalities.

Recommended Citation

Mull, Alexa, "Conservative vs surgical management of congenital ACL aplasia--which is more effective in improving pain and stability?" (2019). Physician Assistant Capstones. 35.
https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/pa-capstones/35