Ersatzplastik des vorderen kreuzbandes bei offenen wachstumsfugen

The natural history of ligamentous tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in children is unfavourable because of the high number of secondary meniscus lesions and early manifestation of osteoarthritis. Although their incidence still is relatively small, the number of ACL tears in children has increased over the last years. There is controversy about the treatment of these lesions, especially considering the long-term conservative approach. Recent studies have shown that ACL reconstructions in children can yield good clinical results and few complications if performed in a technically correct way with respect to the specific anatomy of childrens knees - even before puberty. The functional demands of the patient and the complication potential should be considered while indicating the procedure. A precise knowledge of the anatomical specificities of the childs knee and a large experience in ACL reconstruction surgery should be mandatory when taking care of these injuries. The present review gives a current overview of the management of these lesions in pre-adolescent children.