Source of data: The research was performed on Pubmed, using the query (“Prevention” OR “Rehabilitation”) AND (“Previous cruciate lesion” OR “Previous cruciate injury”) limited to the last 8 years (last research 02.09.2012) and to English, Portuguese or Spanish languages. After reading the abstracts, were selected the 48 articles included.

 

Summary of data: There are several risk factors for ACLL. Preventive programs are essential to reduce the incidence and morbidity. The decision criteria to the treatment are not consensual, although some recommendations are described. The presurgical program should include a rapid and immediate rehabilitation. The different surgical options affect success rates. Post surgically is recommended a rehabilitation program, on average, of 6 months, with different phases and specific objectives. The return to physical activity and patient satisfaction are essential components that certify the quality and success of the intervention. Although less successful, conservative rehabilitation may be the best option in certain situations.

 

Conclusions: This article compiles the latest advances in prevention, surgery and rehabilitation in ACLL. Emphasis to prevention as a way of reducing morbidity and associated costs. Although the ideal protocol is yet to be defined, there are some important objectives to achieve pre and post surgically, both on short and long term. Conservative treatment is reserved to certain situations, albeit with more discouraging outcomes.

 

 

Keywords: orthopedics, anterior cruciate ligament, prevention, rehabilitation, graft.