Recurrent acute hemarthrosis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Report of an unusual complication and a review of the literature.

Abstract

Arthroscopic-assisted and endoscopic operative techniques have allowed for less and less restrictive postoperative rehabilitation programs after cruciate ligament reconstruction. Accelerated rehabilitation programs may, however, also provoke mechanical problems at the transplant-bone interface, as reports in the literature of loosened fixation devices and loosened or even fractured bone pegs with subsequent hemarthrosis and recurrent instability have shown. We describe the case of a patient who presented with recurrent acute hemarthrosis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction without additional trauma and without instability. However, the symptoms and signs were clearly related to the fixation method employed.