QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is the most common ligamentous injury. It occurs through hyperflexion or hyperextension of the stifle joint, combined with rotation of the fixed lower leg during sports activities. Football, basketball, skiing, and other sports are major sports predisposing individuals to ACL rupture, as they often involve abrupt changes in movement direction and high jumps. Micro ruptures, partial and total ruptures are distinguished. The ligament rupture impairs the entire arthrokinematics of the lower extremity, joint stability and poses a risk of various complications due to accompanying locomotor restrictions. The aim of the present research was to investigate the quality of life in patients following reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. Маterials and methods. The study cohort comprised 35 patients with isolated ACL rupture treated by patellar tendon reconstruction. The quality of life of patients after the reconstruction was investigated by means of questionnaires and functional examinations. Results and discussion. All studied patients experienced locomotor restrictions during daily life activities. The major part of the cohort indicated worsened health and psycho-emotional tone. According to the results, the higher the restrictions, the lower the expectations of patients about the recovery outcome. Conclusion. The good psycho-emotional state of patients plays an essential role during the recovery from traumatic injuries and for improving life quality, early return to sports and professional activities.