Histological Changes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament after Injury

ABSTRACT

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is very common worldwide, frequently associated with sports trauma. Often, ACL tear necessitates reconstruction by replacing the entire ligament. Despite ACL reconstruction being performed widely, there is still lack in restoring the anatomical functions. Histological studies have demonstrated that the injured anterior cruciate ligament has numerous vessels and fibroblasts proliferation potential with continuous collagen turnover after 13–20 weeks of injury. Therefore, the ACL has healing potential and the remnants of injured ACL can be used for repair/reconstruction procedures. A better understanding of histological characteristics of injured ACL ligament will add further knowledge for finding new treatment techniques for ACL repair