Prevalence of Concomitant Meniscal Injuries Among Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Within 3 Months of Index Injury in a Tertiary Care Center.
BACKGROUND Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are frequently associated with meniscal tears, which significantly influence knee biomechanics, long-term joint health, and surgical outcomes. Early ACL reconstruction may alter the pattern and frequency of associated meniscal injuries. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study is to estimate the prevalence and pattern of concomitant meniscal injuries in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction within 3 months of index injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedics at a tertiary care center. Seventy patients with ACL injury who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction within 3 months of injury were included. Arthroscopic findings were used to document the presence, side, and type of meniscal tears. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's Chi-square test to assess associations between meniscal injury and demographic or injury variables. RESULTS Meniscal tears were identified in 42 of 70 patients (60%). Lateral meniscal tears were most common (38.5%), followed by medial tears (17%) and combined tears (4.2%). Bucket-handle tears (36%) and radial tears (34%) were the predominant tear patterns. No statistically significant association was found between meniscal injury and age, gender, side of injury, or mechanism of injury (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION A high prevalence of concomitant meniscal injuries exists in patients undergoing early ACL reconstruction, with lateral meniscus involvement predominating. Early identification and management of these injuries are crucial to optimize functional outcomes and prevent long-term degenerative changes.