Prevalence and consequences of delayed diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures

摘要

Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a common injury, often presenting with a typical injury pattern. Historically, the literature indicates that the accuracy of diagnosis of ACL ruptures is poor at the initial medical consultation. The aims of this study were to determine: the mechanism of injury; changes in accuracy of diagnosis of ACL ruptures at initial presentation over the last decade; and the effect of subsequent delay in diagnosis and definitive treatment.