Deep Infection After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Diagnosed by Intratunnel Suspensory Fixation Device Migration: A Case Report.

Abstract

CASE:

A 43-year-old woman sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury while kickboxing and underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring autograft with suspensory fixation. Lateral thigh wound was superficially infected at 2 weeks postoperatively with resolution of signs and symptoms after debridement. Three months later, posterolateral knee pain developed and radiographs revealed intratunnel migration of the device. That observation with abnormal magnetic resonance imaging and serology results led to the diagnosis of deep infection. Immediate device removal and debridement were performed. Consequently, the grafts were preserved, and the patient could perform kickboxing 2 years thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS:

Intratunnel migration of suspensory fixation devices can support a diagnosis of infection.

• Authors: Akira Tsujii, Haruna Takami, Seira Sato, Tatsuo Mae, Tomoki Ohori, Hiroyuki Tanaka, Seiji Okada, Ken Nakata
• Journal: JBJS case connector (JBJS Case Connect) Vol. 13 Issue 4 (10 01 2023) ISSN: 2160-3251 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 37797166 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2023 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.

Topics

• Female
• Humans
• Adult
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (surgery)
• Femur (surgery)
• Tibia (surgery)
• Knee Joint (surgery)
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (adverse effects, methods)