Presented On Campus 12/7/21

Non-Contact ACL Tear Poster

Abstract: The objective of this study is to understand the anatomy, mechanism, and treatment plan of a female athlete who sustained both an ACL tear and fracture of the lateral femoral condyle (bone bruise), with a non-contact hyperextension mechanism. This athlete has never sustained an injury to this knee before and underwent prehab with the Harvard sports medicine staff, had surgery September 24th, and has currently been doing rehabilitation mainly at MGH but we also track her progress as well. The ACL or the anterior cruciate ligament is a major ligament in the knee. From an anatomy standpoint, this ligament originates on the lateral femoral condyle and inserts at the intercondylar area of the tibia. The ACL is made up of an anteromedial and posterolateral bundle becoming tight and loose depending on flexion or extension. The ACL also stabilizes the tibiofemoral joint from anterior translation of the tibia on the femur, a common mechanism of injury would be knee hyperextension. Bone bruises are common in hyperextension due to the two bones coming together with force large enough to cause injury. In conclusion, ACL injuries seem to be common in women’s athletics, and due to the commonality of the injury, a case-by-case study could be good information to present to the scientific community.

Course: MSAT724.A

Student Presenter: Chase Kapuscienski

Faculty Sponsor: Professor Sarah Giasullo

NACE Competencies:

💼 Professionalism
⛰️ Leadership
🎓 Career & Self-Development