The Clinical Significance of Femoral and Tibial Anatomy for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Reconstruction.

Abstract

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial stabilizer of the knee joint, and its injury risk and surgical outcomes are closely linked to femoral and tibial anatomy. This review focuses on current evidence on how skeletal parameters, such as femoral intercondylar notch morphology, tibial slope, and insertion site variations-influence ACL biomechanics. A narrowed or concave femoral notch raises the risk of impingement, while a higher posterior tibial slope makes anterior tibial translation worse, which increases ACL strain. Gender disparities exist, with females exhibiting smaller notch dimensions, and hormonal fluctuations may contribute to ligament laxity. Anatomical changes that come with getting older make clinical management even harder. Adolescent patients have problems with epiphyseal growth, and older patients have to deal with degenerative notch narrowing and lower bone density. Preoperative imaging (MRI, CT, and 3D reconstruction) enables precise assessment of anatomical variations, guiding individualized surgical strategies. Optimal femoral and tibial tunnel placement during reconstruction is vital to replicate native ACL biomechanics and avoid graft failure. Emerging technologies, including AI-driven segmentation and deep learning models, enhance risk prediction and intraoperative precision. Furthermore, synergistic factors, such as meniscal integrity and posterior oblique ligament anatomy, need to be integrated into comprehensive evaluations. Future directions emphasize personalized approaches, combining advanced imaging, neuromuscular training, and artificial intelligence to optimize prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation. Addressing age-specific challenges, such as growth plate preservation in pediatric cases and osteoarthritis management in the elderly, will improve long-term outcomes. Ultimately, a nuanced understanding of skeletal anatomy and technological integration holds promise for reducing ACL reinjury rates and enhancing patient recovery.