Evaluation of ACL Graft by MRI: A Pictorial Review

Abstract

The reconstruction of a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a well established procedure for repair of ACL injury. Knowledge of normal appearances, the expected postoperative changes over time, and potential acute and chronic complications of this reconstruction procedure are essential. This study illustrates the role of MRI in evaluation of ACL reconstructions and their complications. MR imaging is the modality of choice for evaluation of ACL graft reconstruction. ACL graft complications such as abnormal tunnel positioning, partial and complete graft tears, arthrofibrosis, and tunnel cysts can be reliably assessed using MRI.

Keywords

• anterior cruciate ligament
• tibial tunnel
• femoral tunnel
• arthrofibrosis