Published online Sep 18, 2022. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v13.i9.777
Peer-review started: March 11, 2022
First decision: June 8, 2022
Revised: June 16, 2022
Accepted: August 17, 2022
Article in press: August 17, 2022
Published online: September 18, 2022
Background: Knee examination guidelines in minors are intended to aid decision-making in the management of knee instability. Clinical question: A Delphi study was conducted with a formal consensus process using a validated methodology with sufficient scientific evidence. A group consensus meeting was held to develop recommendations and practical guidelines for use in the assessment of instability injuries in children. Key findings: there is a lack of evidence to analyse anterior cruciate ligament injuries in children and their subsequent surgical management if necessary. Diagnostic guidelines and clinical assessment of the patient based on a thorough examination of the knee are performed and a guide to anterior cruciate ligament exploration in children is developed. Clinical ap
Core Tip: A Delphi study was conducted with a formal consensus process using validated methodology with scientific evidence to develop recommendations and practical guidelines for the assessment of instability injuries in children. Following this expert consensus, surgical treatment is advised when the patient has a subjective sensation of instability accompanied by a pivot shift test ++, and may include an anterior drawer test + and a Lachman test +. If these conditions are not present, the conservative approach should be chosen, as the anatomical and functional development of children, together with a physiotherapy programme, may improve the evolution of the injury.