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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2025; 29(03): 390-402
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1806795
Review Article

Complete and Partial Tears of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament: Acute and Evolution

Wassef Khaled 
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
2   Imagerie Médicale Léonard de Vinci, Centre Cortambert, Paris, France
,
Antoine Gerometta
3   Department of Sports Surgery, Clinique du Sport, Paris, France
,
Henri Guerini
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
2   Imagerie Médicale Léonard de Vinci, Centre Cortambert, Paris, France
,
Quentin Monzani
2   Imagerie Médicale Léonard de Vinci, Centre Cortambert, Paris, France
4   Department of Radiology, AP-HP, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Sorbonne University, University Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France
,
Eric Pessis
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
,
Raphaël Campagna
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
,
Fadila Mihoubi Bouvier
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
2   Imagerie Médicale Léonard de Vinci, Centre Cortambert, Paris, France
,
Jean-Luc Drapé
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
,
Antoine Feydy
1   Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, AP-HP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament tears represent a prevalent injury in sports that involves rotational movements and rapid changes in direction, such as pivot-contact sports. The anterior cruciate ligament serves as the primary stabilizer of the knee, preventing anterior tibial translation and medial tibial rotation. Although clinical examination is essential for diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging plays a crucial role in confirming complete tears and evaluating associated injuries, particularly meniscal injuries. Diagnosis relies on both direct and secondary signs that are instrumental in assessing knee laxity and stability. Despite advancements in imaging techniques, challenges persist in using magnetic resonance imaging to distinguish between complete and partial tears, evaluate knee instability, and determine the potential for anterior cruciate ligament healing.

Keywords

anterior cruciate ligament - magnetic resonance imaging - instability - tear


Publication History

Article published online:
20 May 2025

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