KUMJ | VOL. 21 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 81 | JANUARY - MARCH, 2023
Arthroscopic Debridement for Mucoid Degeneration of Anterior Cruciate Ligament - A Single Institution Experience from Nepal
Shrestha R, Khadka SK, Maharjan S, Basi A, Dahal A, Chaudhary A, Acharya SP, Malla M
Abstract: Background
Mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate ligament is characterized by infiltration of
mucoid-like material scattered throughout the anterior cruciate ligament substance.
It is an uncommon condition, but previously, underdiagnosed or often misdiagnosed
as an anterior cruciate ligament tear.
Objective
To present our early experiences with mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate
ligament in last five years in terms of clinical presentation and the outcomes of
arthroscopic management.
Method
This was a retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study on patient who received
arthroscopic debridement for mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate ligament in
Dhulikhel Hospital over five years period (2017 May to 2022 April). Western Ontario
and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale that has been
translated and validated to be used in local (Nepali) language and context was used
for evaluation of outcome evaluation.
Result
Twenty-one patients of mean age 44.21 years, predominantly females (18), were
managed in five years period. The mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities
Osteoarthritis Index score was 16.33±10.47 with a range of 0 to 36 (11.57 to 21.09
at 95% confidence interval). The mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities
Osteoarthritis Index score converted on a scale of 0 to 100 was 17. Thirteen patients
had isolated Mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate ligament whereas nine others
had associated either meniscal tear or chondral lesions.
Conclusion
Mucoid degeneration of anterior cruciate ligament could be a cause of knee pain
in middle-aged patients and arthroscopic debridement can improve the patient’s
symptoms and provide a good functional outcome.
Keyword : Anterior cruciate ligament, Arthroscopy, Debridement, Mucoid degeneration, WOMAC
