Screening for arthrofibrosis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: analysis of association with human leukocyte antigen.

Purpose: Arthrofibrosis represents a severe complication of trauma and reconstructive joint surgery because of generalized connective tissue proliferation resulting in painful joint stiffness. It often appears stereotypical in terms of its clinical and pathologic features, comprising excess deposition of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen type I, III, and VI and proliferation of fibroblasts. However, trauma and surgery around joints does not always lead to fibrosis, suggesting a genetic predisposition.