Dr. Richard Cunningham of Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON) is a highly regarded knee specialist with over 20 years of experience treating ACL injuries and guiding patients through their recovery journeys. A potential problem after ACL surgery is lingering knee stiffness and pain. One potential culprit? Cyclops lesions. This blog will shed light on what cyclops knee is, why it occurs, and how to address it effectively.
What Are Cyclops Lesions?
A cyclops lesion is a small, fibrous lump of scar tissue that can develop in the front of the knee following ACL reconstruction surgery. This tissue typically forms adjacent to the tendon graft used to reconstruct one’s ACL. It can cause pain, catching, swelling and stiffness in the knee. It may restrict the knee’s ability to fully straighten. Patients with cyclops knee often report sensations of “catching” or “locking” when extending their knee, contributing to the feeling of stiffness. The pain is usually located anteriorly, below the knee cap.
Dr. Cunningham explains, “Cyclops lesions are a possible complication following ACL surgery. Making the diagnosis early and treating it can help prevent chronic pain and stiffness and allow for a full recovery.”
Why Do Cyclops Lesions Develop?
Cyclops lesions can occasionally form during the healing process when scar tissue builds up around the ACL graft. This overgrowth can interfere with the smooth gliding motion of the knee joint, particularly during extension. Factors that may increase the risk of cyclops knee include:
- Incomplete rehabilitation and inability to achieve full extension early in recovery.
- Overuse or premature return to activities that inflame the anterior aspect of the knee causing scarring in this area.
- Malpositioning of the ACL graft leading tp pinching of the graft material and scar formation.
Dr. Cunningham stresses the importance of adhering to your post-surgical rehab plan to minimize the likelihood of developing cyclops lesions.
How Are Cyclops Lesions Diagnosed and Treated?
Cyclops lesions are often diagnosed by an orthopedic knee specialist obtaining a history from the patient of what sort of symptoms they are experiencing and how they developed as well as performing a good physical exam of the knee. The physical exam usually demonstrates pain to palpation below the patella as well as crepitus (popping and grinding) under the patella with knee range of motion. If a patient presents with these physical exam findings, Dr. Cunningham would then recommend an MRI to determine if there is a cyclops lesion.
Treatment options for cyclops lesions can vary depending on severity:
- Non-Surgical Management: For mild cases, physical therapy focused on restoring full knee extension can help alleviate stiffness.
- Surgical Intervention: If the lesion significantly restricts motion and/or causes pain and crepitus, a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure may be necessary to remove the fibrous tissue and restore normal knee function.
“While surgical intervention may sound daunting, it’s a straightforward procedure that usually eliminates all of the symptoms associated with a cyclops lesion,” says Dr. Cunningham.
Preventing Knee Stiffness After Surgery
Preventing cyclops lesions begins with a dedicated and comprehensive rehabilitation program. Dr. Cunningham emphasizes the importance of:
- Early focus on achieving full knee extension post-surgery.
- Following the guidance of your physical therapist to balance strengthening exercises with flexibility work.
- Avoiding premature return to high-impact sports or activities.
By working closely with your surgeon and rehab team, you can reduce the risk of cyclops knee and achieve a smooth recovery.
Expert Care with Top ACL Surgeon
Knee stiffness after surgery can be frustrating, but understanding the role of cyclops lesions and addressing them early can make a significant difference in your recovery. Dr. Cunningham and his team at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery are here to help you regain mobility and confidence, whether through personalized rehabilitation plans or advanced treatment options.
If you’re experiencing knee stiffness after surgery or suspect cyclops lesions, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Dr. Cunningham’s expertise and compassionate care will guide you every step of the way.