The Hidden Deficit: Lean Body Mass and Fat Mass Changes Post- Acl Surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).This study aims to explore the discrepancies in lean body mass (LBM) and
fat mass between the post-operative ACL thigh and the contralateral thigh, despite their equal mid-thigh circumferences.
Methods: Fifteen patients who underwent Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction with either STG or BPTB grafts and followed
a personalized rehabilitation plan for 12 weeks were included in this study. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)
scans were performed 12 weeks post-surgery to assess body composition. Measurements of mid-thigh circumference,
LBM, and fat mass were obtained for both the operated and contralateral thighs. Statistical analysis was conducted to
compare the differences between the two thighs.
Results: The results demonstrated that while the mid-thigh circumferences of the post-operative ACL thigh (54.6 ± 4.24)
and the contralateral thigh (54.27 ± 4.2) were comparable, significant differences were observed in their composition. The
LBM of the post-operative ACL thigh (7652.93 ± 967.21) was significantly lower (p<0.05) compared to the contralateral
thigh (8015.07 ± 954.27), indicating muscle atrophy despite equal circumference. Conversely, the fat mass in the post
operative ACL thigh was significantly higher (p<0.05), suggesting an increase in adipose tissue.
Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of considering muscle composition changes, addressing quadriceps inhibition, and employing appropriate assessment tools in post-operative assessments and rehabilitation strategies for ACL reconstruction patients.