Correlation Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Graft Maturity and Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using International Knee Documentation Committee Score.

Abstract

The correlation between the signal/noise quotient values of an anterior cruciate ligament graft and the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form 2000 scores after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was evaluated. Magnetic resonance imaging and clinical evaluation using International Knee Documentation Committee scores were used to calculate the signal intensity of the graft maturity at the 6-mo and 12-mo follow-up points postoperatively. The associations between the signal/noise quotient values at the 6-mo follow-up point and International Knee Documentation Committee scores at the 12-mo follow-up point were evaluated. A total of 42 male patients completed our trial and returned to normal activity level before the surgery. The mean ± SD age of these patients was 29.07 ± 8.11 yrs (range, 17-47 yrs). The mean ± SD body mass index was 26.00 ± 2.59 kg/m. Notably, the Pearson correlation analysis showed that the International Knee Documentation Committee scores obtained at 12 mos were significantly associated with the signal/noise quotient values measured in the sixth month and twelfth month, respectively (r = -0.454, P = 0.003; r = -0.478, P = 0.001). According to this study, early measurement of graft maturity might predict the clinical outcome afterward. The sensitive predictive value of signal/noise quotient could be used to maximize the patient outcomes.