Knee Aspiration and High Definition MRI for ACL Injury

Pilot Study Into the Structural Local Molecular Environment Following an ACL Injury

The aim of this pilot study is to understand the biological changes that occur within the knee joint following injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This will be achieved through aspiration and analysis of the haemarthrosis which fills the knee following injury. The study will look at inflammatory and healing responses using DNA, RNA and protein analysis.

This, combined with high resolution imaging of the knee and surrounding soft tissue structures, may enable a more patient specific approach to treatment of ACL injury.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of ACL injury confirmed by MRI
• All participants must have the capacity to provide informed consent to participate
• Participants must be able to comply with required study visit

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants outside of the specified age range
• Participants who do not have the mental capacity to make informed decisions
• Participants who have meniscal pathology or other injuries requiring urgent surgery