The ligaments of the knee are made up of strong, dense connective tissue. These ligaments are what allows us to walk, bend, pivot and turn. They are also required for maintaining knee stability. These ligaments are commonly injured in sports such as soccer, football, basketball, skiing and gymnastics. In a multiligament knee injury there is a tear of at least two of the four major knee ligament structures: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the posteromedial corner (PMC) and the posterolateral corner (PCL). When multiple ligaments of the knee are injured, oftentimes, other problems are occurring such as a dislocated knee or a fracture. In these cases, knee specialist Dr. Austin Chen serving the greater Boulder, Colorado area may suggest surgically reconstructing the tears of the various ligaments.
What is a multi-ligament knee reconstruction?
When non-operative treatments are not successful, or when there is significant instability in the knee, Dr. Chen will usually recommend a multi-ligament knee surgery. Most all cases of multi-ligament knee injuries require surgery. Once surgery is planned, patients will begin with physical therapy to work on regaining motion and to reduce swelling. A knee brace will also be worn to protect the knee. The goal of a multi-ligament knee reconstruction is to restore knee stability and regain full range of motion. Dr. Chen does this by reconstructing the ligament using the patient’s tissue or a donor’s. Some ligaments such as the LCL and the PCL are usually reconstructed using a donors. Dr. Chen uses a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique to repair the ACL, PCL, and meniscal damage, while the MCL and LCL are performed through larger incisions.
What is the recovery from a multi-ligament reconstruction surgery?
Following surgery, patients are sent home with a physical therapy regime to regain full range of motion and strength of the knee. Physical therapy can be completed through the Boulder Centre for Orthopedics Physical Therapy Center, which offers all patients complete and seamless recovery care. The time in which a patient can return to their normal physical activities depends on the number of torn ligaments and other associated injuries.
