When it comes to the timing of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, specifically with regard to what is best for the medial meniscus, there are a variety of factors that can influence your decision. One important study suggested that delaying surgery more than 3 months would subject you to an even greater risk of medial meniscal tears. Recent studies demonstrate how this relationship underscores the need for prompt intervention to prevent further injury of the knee.
The Perils of Procrastination
Greater Risk of Meniscus Damage: Medial meniscal tears, for example, are known to develop at an increased propensity if a patient defers having their ACL reconstructed longer than 3 months. A systematic review showed even odds ratio of meniscal tears in this time (OR = 2.235), indicating a high risk form delay23 –>
Long-Term Joint Health: If surgery is put off for too long, the untreated meniscus could result in chondral injuries that can be difficult to repair and have a negative effect on joint health down the line. The longer the wait, the higher more manifestations of knee degeneration34
Ideal Surgical Timing
3–6 Months Post-Injury: Most of the literature recommends that ACL reconstruction should be performed at 3 to 6 months after injury in order to reduce meniscal damage risks. This window is regarded as the best time to prevent from injury of articulation and for good surgical results12.
Even After Six Months: Prolonging the ACL injury for over six months could result in greater problems such as worse meniscal and cartilage damage. The same studies proposed that surgical intervention after this time is associated with worse long term functional outcomes34.
Patient Considerations
Personal: Each patient’s caregiving situation will be specific to his or her needs, based on age and health. Early surgery may also be warranted in younger patients or those involved with high-impact sports to maintain joint stability and function15.
Pre-operative rehab: Patients should participate in a range-of-motion and strengthening programme prior to surgery which may improve surgical outcomes and recovery5.
Overall, some patients may elect to delay ACL reconstruction surgery; however, there are substantial risks of medial meniscus and knee health consequences for doing so. The one thing all researchers seem to agree on is the cesspool of joint tissue injury created by not getting after it and implementing regenerative therapies within 3-6 months post-injury.ACL Surgery Timing (ad)
