Employment in the Australian Army after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction - a pilot study of 3 year postoperative outcomes

Abstract

This study examines the military employment of soldiers in the Australian Regular Army 3 years after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Patients undertaking ACL reconstruction were more likely to be assessed as medically unfit for military service compared to a control group undertaking an unrelated procedure (extraction of wisdom teeth), however overall discharge rates were not affected. 71 % of patients undertaking ACL reconstructions were considered fit for military service 3 years after surgery, allowing their participation in active operational duty.