One hundred thirteen patients scheduled for repair of knee ligament injuries were randomized to postopera tive immobilization in either a hinged or a long leg cast. The time of disability (i.e., sick leave) was significantly shorter (6 weeks) with a hinged cast, but only in ACL cases. All types of injuries regained their range of motion more rapidly after use of a hinged cast. There was no evidence that the motion permitted in a hinged cast hampers the result as regards to stability.
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