Pediatric knee injuries, particularly involving patellar instability and cruciate ligament ruptures, present unique challenges in surgical treatment due to the presence of growth plates. The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is a critical stabilizer of the patella, and reconstructive techniques for the MPFL, as well as for the anterior (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligaments (PCL), are often problematic in young patients because conventional adult techniques can harm open growth plates. Although the development of all-epiphyseal surgical approaches provides a solution to avoid such injury, there remains a lack of comprehensive data on their outcomes in the young population. Moreover, the anatomical correlations between ligament insertions and growth plates remain insufficiently explored, leaving gaps in optimal surgical planning.

This Research Topic aims to explore and establish safer, more effective surgical methods for addressing pediatric knee ligament injuries. The primary objectives are to assess the anatomical relationships between ligament attachments and growth plates, investigate the clinical outcomes of all-epiphyseal reconstruction techniques, and validate the safety and effectiveness of these methods through long-term follow-up studies. Additionally, employing imaging, 3D printing, robotics, and biomechanics, this Research Topic seeks to elucidate the anatomical and biomechanical aspects of ligament reconstructions in skeletally immature patients and to develop consensus on surgical practices that are aligned with preserving growth plate integrity.

To gather further insights in innovative and growth plate-preserving surgical methods, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Anatomical relationships between ligament attachments and growth plates

o All-epiphyseal reconstruction techniques and outcomes

o Advanced technologies (3D printing, navigation, robotics) for precise graft placement

o Biomechanical studies of graft fixation in immature skeletons

o Long-term clinical follow-up and growth disturbance risks

We invite submissions in the form of Original Research and Consensus Statements focusing on growth plate-preserving surgical innovations, evidence-based treatment guidelines, as well as advancements in imaging and computational modeling to enhance the safety and effectiveness of interventions for skeletally immature patients.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Physeal-sparing surgical strategies and related studies for pediatric knee ligament injuries