Intermediate
Technical
IVT
anterior cruciate ligament injury
Tear of the ACL in pediatric patients, increasingly common in young athletes and requiring specialized management considerations.
Full Definition
An injury to the anterior cruciate ligament in skeletally immature patients, presenting unique challenges due to ongoing growth and the proximity of growth plates to standard reconstruction techniques. Pediatric ACL injuries have increased dramatically with year-round youth sports participation. Management must balance the need for knee stability with preservation of growth potential, often requiring modified surgical techniques or delayed reconstruction until skeletal maturity.
Usage
Usage note: When abbreviated as ACL, ensure context makes clear this refers to pediatric rather than adult injury patterns.
In Context
- "The 14-year-old soccer player's anterior cruciate ligament injury required discussion of growth-plate-sparing reconstruction options." — Sports medicine consultation
- "MRI confirmed complete anterior cruciate ligament injury with associated bone bruising." — Radiology report
Also known as
ACL tear
ACL rupture
Don't confuse with
posterior cruciate ligament injury
meniscal tear