Mucoid Degeneration of Anterior Cruciate Ligament—A Systematic Approach for Debulking

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) mucoid degeneration is an underdiagnosed condition that occurs when mucinous material develops in the ACL in the absence of synovial lining. Several authors have diagnosed this condition, discussed their own personal observations, and put forward their own suggestions for management. When diagnosed, one important strategy for management entails “debulking” the ACL using an arthroscopic debridement. No protocol has been described on the sequence of steps for ACL debridement during arthroscopy. We present our own in this Technical Note, with the addition of video footage that describes our arthroscopic technique for ACL mucoid degeneration debridement using radiofrequency ablation and the sequence of steps. This Technical Note aims to demonstrate the procedure needed for arthroscopic debulking of a mucoid ACL, which will lessen ACL impingement while maintaining a stable knee.