Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are widely performed to restore knee stability and function. Quadriceps tendon (QT) and bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autografts are among the most common surgical options, with the BPTB autograft considered the gold standard and the QT autograft emerging as a promising alternative. However, the impact of graft choice on postural control and balance during visual cognitive tasks has been underexplored, especially when comparing these two graft types. Postural control, an essential component of functional mobility, can be compromised in ACL reconstruction (ACLR) patients due to the need to reallocate cognitive resources to maintain balance.

 

This study aims to evaluate the balance performance of ACLR patients with QT and BPTB autografts when exposed to a visual cognitive task. Participants will complete three single-leg balance trials on their surgically treated leg: one with their eyes open, one with their eyes closed and one while performing a Stroop test, which will serve as the visual cognitive task. Balance will be assessed using the Vicon motion capture system by placing reflective markers on the participants and tracking changes in their balance based on the data from the force plate they are standing on. By assessing balance during a single testing session, we seek to determine whether the type of graft impacts the patient’s ability to maintain postural control under cognitively demanding conditions. The findings of this study will contribute to the understanding of how different graft types influence balance and postural control, potentially guiding post-operative rehabilitation protocols and graft selection in ACL reconstruction surgeries.