Article

The Dutch Orthopaedic Association has a long tradition of development of
practical clinical guidelines. Here we present the recommendations from the
multidisciplinary clinical guideline working group for anterior cruciate ligament
injury. The following 8 clinical questions were formulated by a steering group of
the Dutch Orthopaedic Association. What is the role of physical examination and
additional diagnostic tools ? Which patient-related outcome measures should be
used ? What are the relevant parameters that influence the indication for an ACL
reconstruction ? Which findings or complaints are predictive of a bad result of an
ACL injury treatment ?
What is the optimal timing for surgery for an ACL injury ?
What is the outcome of different conservative treatment modalities? Which kind of
graft gives the best result in an ACL reconstruction ?
What is the optimal
postoperative treatment concerning rehabilitation, resumption of sports, and
physiotherapy ? These 8 questions were answered and recommendations were made,
using the "Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation" instrument. This
instrument seeks to improve the quality and effectiveness of clinical practical
guidelines by establishing a shared framework to develop, report, and assess. The
steering group has also developed 7 internal indicators to aid in measuring and
enhancing the quality of the treatment of patients with an ACL injury, for use in a hospital or practice.

Langue : ANGLAIS