Multiligamentous Knee Injury: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

A multiligamentous knee injury occurs when two or more of the knee’s major ligaments are damaged simultaneously. The knee has four key ligaments—the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL)—that work together to provide stability. Severe trauma, such as car accidents, high-impact sports injuries, or falls, can lead to complex ligamentous damage, affecting knee function and mobility.

Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar, a skilled orthopedic surgeon, specializes in diagnosing and treating complex knee injuries through both surgical and non-surgical approaches, ensuring optimal recovery for patients.

Causes of Multiligamentous Knee Injury

This type of injury usually results from:

• High-Energy Trauma: Common in car crashes, motorcycle accidents, and falls from heights.
• Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like football, rugby, and skiing involve sudden twisting, collisions, or hyperextension, leading to multiple ligament tears.
• Knee Dislocations: Severe force can cause the knee to dislocate, damaging multiple ligaments at once.
• Direct Impact or Rotational Force: Sudden changes in direction or heavy contact can cause ligament ruptures.

Symptoms of Multiligamentous Knee Injury

Patients with multiple ligament tears may experience:

• Severe Pain and Swelling: Rapid swelling due to internal bleeding.
• Knee Instability: Difficulty standing, walking, or bearing weight.
• Restricted Range of Motion: Stiffness and an inability to fully extend or bend the knee.
• Visible Knee Deformity: In cases of knee dislocation, the joint may appear misaligned.
• Numbness or Tingling: If nerves are affected, patients may feel numbness around the knee or lower leg.

Diagnosis of Multiligamentous Knee Injury

A thorough assessment is required to determine the severity of ligament damage:

• Physical Examination: Stability tests like the Lachman test, posterior drawer test, and varus/valgus stress test help identify affected ligaments.
• MRI Scan: Provides a detailed image of the ligament injuries and any associated cartilage or meniscus damage.
• X-rays: Helps detect fractures or dislocations.
• Stress Radiography: Evaluates the extent of ligament laxity.

Treatment Options for Multiligamentous Knee Injury

The treatment plan depends on the severity of ligament damage, overall knee stability, and the patient’s activity level.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For partial ligament tears or non-displaced injuries, conservative treatment may be considered:

• Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): Helps reduce swelling and pain.
• Knee Bracing: Provides support and prevents excessive movement.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthens surrounding muscles to compensate for ligament instability.
• Pain Management: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections for pain relief.

Surgical Treatment

For complete ligament tears or severe instability, surgery is often required:

• Ligament Reconstruction: Torn ligaments are reconstructed using grafts from the patient’s hamstring, patellar tendon, or donor tissue.
• Multiligament Repair: In cases of acute injury, primary repair of ligaments may be possible.
• Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive approach to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments.
• Knee Dislocation Reduction: If dislocation occurs, the knee is stabilized before surgery.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

A structured rehabilitation program is crucial for optimal recovery:

• Phase 1 (0-6 Weeks): Pain management, swelling reduction, and controlled knee movements.
• Phase 2 (6-12 Weeks): Progressive strengthening exercises and bracing.
• Phase 3 (3-6 Months): Weight-bearing exercises and balance training.
• Phase 4 (6-12 Months): Return to sports-specific training and gradual resumption of full activity.

Why Choose Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar for Multiligamentous Knee Injury Treatment?

• Expert in Complex Knee Reconstruction: Specializes in treating severe ligament injuries.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: Uses minimally invasive methods for faster recovery.
• Personalized Rehabilitation Plans: Tailored treatment for long-term knee health.
• Comprehensive Care Approach: Focuses on restoring mobility, stability, and strength.

For expert diagnosis and treatment of multiligamentous knee injuries, book a consultation with Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar and take the first step toward a stronger, pain-free knee.