Neurocognitive Performance Test in function of return to sport evaluation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction - Pilot study

Abstract

Background: A high re-injury rate is present in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed (ACLR) patients who return to their pre-injured level. Currently, the return to sport (RTS) decision-making process is dominated by biomechanical evaluations. However, neurocognitive changes have been found in ACLR patients, but no neurocognitive evaluation tool has been integrated yet within the current RTS decision-making process. It may be possible that a broader evaluation spectrum is required for patients with an ACLR in order for them to safely RTS. Objectives: To evaluate the difference in neurocognitive performance between ACLR and matched controls using a neurocognitive monitoring tool in function of RTS evaluation after ACLR. Participants: Twelve ACLR participants and twelve individually matched controls (age, gender, sport activity) participated in this study. Measurements: The participants performed the dynamic reaction speed test, using Smartgoals and the fundamental neurocognitive tests such as, judgement, reaction time, pattern recognition and split vision, using MyMindWorks. The outcome measures are described in time (seconds and milliseconds) and the outcome of the split vision test in a score from zero to two. Conclusion: Although no significant differences were found, future research on a larger scale is needed to draw a conclusion with certainty to integrate these tools within the RTS-decision making process.