CALIDAD DE VIDA EN PACIENTES SOMETIDOS A RECONSTRUCCIÓN DE LIGAMENTO CRUZADO EN PACIENTES DEL HOSPITAL POLICÍA NACIONAL DE GUAYAQUIL 2022-2023

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluated the quality of life and joint functionality post-anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction at the National Police Hospital in Guayaquil. It focused on analyzing how the characteristics of the injury and physical activities affect quality of life after surgery. Method: From September 2022 to September 2023, this non-experimental cross-sectional study used a form that collected clinical and demographic data, as well as responses to the KOOS questionnaire. Out of 147 initial patients, 124 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the final analysis. The Chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between clinical variables and the KOOS subscales. Results: According to the KOOS questionnaire, moderate levels of pain and symptoms were revealed, but good functionality in daily activities was observed. The location of the rupture showed a statistically significant influence on quality of life (P=0.0061), while the time of evolution significantly affected symptoms (P=0.0185) and quality of life (P=0.0478). No significant effects of the level of physical activity on the KOOS results were found, indicating that this factor does not considerably influence the perception of quality of life. Conclusion: This study revealed that the quality-of-life post-ACL reconstruction is generally moderate, although daily activities show good recovery. Factors such as the location of the rupture and the time of evolution significantly influence recovery, while preoperative physical activity has less impact.