Return to Elite-Level Basketball After Surgical Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Medial Collateral Ligament of the Knee With Meniscal Repairs–It Takes Teamwork and Time to Restore Performance: A Case Report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Return to the preinjury level of play after a 2-or-more-ligament knee injury is a challenge, with research suggesting that injury pattern and rehabilitation quality are key variables to consider. CASE PRESENTATION: A 22-year-old male basketball player suffered a 2-ligament knee injury involving the anterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and both menisci. He underwent reconstructive surgery and completed his rehabilitation and return-to-sport training within 1 facility. OUTCOME AND FOLLOW-UP: After 12 months of extensive rehabilitation, objective testing confirmed the recovery of the athlete's surgical limb performance. He returned to his preinjury level of play and signed a professional contract to play elite-level basketball in Europe. DISCUSSION: The athlete required more than a year of extensive rehabilitation to return to elite-level basketball. After a 2-or-more-ligament knee injury, comprehensive rehabilitation programs are required to support an athlete's return to their preinjury level of play. JOSPT Cases 2022;2(4):226–233. Epub: 12 October 2022. doi:10.2519/josptcases.2022.11103