Donor Ankle Sensorimotor Recovery After ACL Reconstruction With a Peroneus Longus Tendon Autograft

This prospective longitudinal observational cohort study will characterize recovery of donor-ankle sensorimotor function in adults who have undergone primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a peroneus longus tendon autograft. Twenty participants aged 18 to 55 years will be evaluated at postoperative 6-8 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. The donor limb and the contralateral non-donor limb will be compared using surface electromyography of the peroneus longus, force-platform measures of postural control, inertial-sensor gait analysis, active ankle joint-position sense testing, and clinical and patient-reported foot and ankle function measures. The study does not assign the surgical procedure or rehabilitation treatment.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 to 55 years. * Unilateral primary anterior cruciate ligament tear confirmed by clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging. * Primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction performed using a peroneus longus tendon autograft. * Able and willing to attend the postoperative assessments at 6-8 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. * Written informed consent provided before study participation. Exclusion Criteria: * Multiligament knee injury. * Previous surgery on the index knee or donor ankle. * Pre-existing ankle instability or major foot or ankle pathology. * Neurological or neuromuscular disease. * Inflammatory or systemic disease that may affect the assessments. * Major lower-extremity deformity that may affect the assessments. * Unable to complete the postoperative rehabilitation program or scheduled follow-up assessments.