What can predict the health-related quality of life for patients who undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery examines all unilateral ACL reconstruction from 2002 to 2004 enrolled in a prospective multicenter cohort. There were 1,512 patients included and 1,411 who completed at least one follow-up questionnaire.
The researchers found:
1. The average Physical Component Summary scores were 41.9 points at baseline; 53.6 points at two years; and 54 points at six years.
2. The average Mental Component Summary scores were 53.6 points at baseline; 52 points at two years and 52.4 points at six years.
3. The significant predictors of higher PCS scores were:
● Higher baseline PCS scores
● Younger age
● Lower body mass index
● Less than 50 percent of lateral meniscus excised
● No treatment done on a lateral meniscus tear
4. The significant predictors of a lower PCS were:
● Shorter follow-up time since surgery
● Revision ACL reconstruction
● Smoking at baseline
● Fewer years of education
● Chondromalacia of the lateral tibial plateau
5. There was an average utility gained at six years after ACL reconstruction of 5.3 quality-adjusted life years.
"ACL reconstruction resulted in a relatively high gain of QALYs," concluded the study authors.