Abstract
Aim:
To evaluate whether the addition of a Lateral Extra-Articular Procedure (LEAP) to
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) yields superior outcomes compared
to isolated ACLR.
Design:
Systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Methods:
Five databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
comparing ACLR with the addition of a LEAP versus isolated primary ACLR. Studies
were included in meta-analysis when comparable outcome measures at equivalent
time points were reported in at least two studies.
Results:
Fifteen RCTs were included in this review with ten eligible for meta-analysis. Metaanalysis demonstrated the addition of a LEAP significantly reduced rotatory instability
(RR 1.45 [95%CI 1.17, 1.79]; p=0.0006) and graft rupture rates (RR 0.21 [95%CI 0.08,
0.55]; p=0.001). Short-term postoperative morbidity, including heightened pain, joint
stiffness, and reduced muscle strength in the LEAP group, resolved by 6-12 months
post-surgery. No association between LEAPs and accelerated knee osteoarthritis was
identified.
Conclusion:
ACLR with the addition of LEAPs demonstrates superior clinical outcomes compared to
isolated ACLR. Although early postoperative outcomes favoured isolated ACLR
regarding pain and function, these effects resolved within 6-12 months. Current
evidence remains insufficient to establish a relationship between LEAPs and
accelerated knee osteoarthritis.
To evaluate whether the addition of a Lateral Extra-Articular Procedure (LEAP) to
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) yields superior outcomes compared
to isolated ACLR.
Design:
Systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Methods:
Five databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
comparing ACLR with the addition of a LEAP versus isolated primary ACLR. Studies
were included in meta-analysis when comparable outcome measures at equivalent
time points were reported in at least two studies.
Results:
Fifteen RCTs were included in this review with ten eligible for meta-analysis. Metaanalysis demonstrated the addition of a LEAP significantly reduced rotatory instability
(RR 1.45 [95%CI 1.17, 1.79]; p=0.0006) and graft rupture rates (RR 0.21 [95%CI 0.08,
0.55]; p=0.001). Short-term postoperative morbidity, including heightened pain, joint
stiffness, and reduced muscle strength in the LEAP group, resolved by 6-12 months
post-surgery. No association between LEAPs and accelerated knee osteoarthritis was
identified.
Conclusion:
ACLR with the addition of LEAPs demonstrates superior clinical outcomes compared to
isolated ACLR. Although early postoperative outcomes favoured isolated ACLR
regarding pain and function, these effects resolved within 6-12 months. Current
evidence remains insufficient to establish a relationship between LEAPs and
accelerated knee osteoarthritis.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 372-373 of Abstract Book |
| Publication status | Published - 24 Oct 2025 |
| Event | Australian Physiotherapy Association Scientific Conference 2025: Lead the physiotherapy evolution - Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, Australia Duration: 23 Oct 2025 → 25 Oct 2025 https://physiotherapy.eventsair.com/apasc25/ |
Conference
| Conference | Australian Physiotherapy Association Scientific Conference 2025: Lead the physiotherapy evolution |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | APASC25 |
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Adelaide |
| Period | 23/10/25 → 25/10/25 |
| Other | APA invites you to its biennial scientific conference APASC25, the Australian Physiotherapy Association Scientific Conference 2025. Take this opportunity to: •explore the latest in research, technology, evidence-based practice and social change •advance your profession and enhance patient care •learn from international and local speakers |
| Internet address |
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Dive into the research topics of 'The addition of a lateral extraarticular procedure to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction improves clinical outcome.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Related Research Outputs
- 1 Article
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Does the Addition of a Lateral Extra-Articular Procedure to a Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Result in Superior Functional and Clinical Outcomes. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Kan, A., English, T., Penny, A., Franc-Smith, J., Tudor, F. & Sattler, L., Sept 2025, In: American Journal of Sports Medicine. 53, 11, p. 1-12 12 p.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Research › peer-review
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