Multi-Ligament Knee Reconstruction

What is a Multi-Ligament Knee Injury?

The knee contains 4 strong fibrous bands of tissue known as ligaments that hold the bones together and allow for proper movement. The anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL) limit how far the tibia (shin bone) can move in a forward and backward direction relative to the femur (thigh bone). The medial and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL) are found on the outsides of the knee joint and provide stability during side-to-side movements. The collateral ligaments also help prevent an abnormal twisting motion of the knee. Occasionally, 2 or more of these ligaments can be damaged during intense physical activity, contact sports, or traumatic injury to the knee such as from a significant fall or motor vehicle accident. This is known as a multi-ligament knee injury.

What can be done to fix a multi-ligament knee injury?

In most cases of multi-ligament knee injury, surgery to reconstruct the injured ligaments is recommended. knee reconstruction is frequently recommended. The surgery performed must be individually tailored to the patient’s injuries and to the ligaments involved as well as the goals of the patient after surgery. Due to this complexity, it is important that patients trust a highly skilled surgeon to perform the surgery. Dr. Joseph Lamplot, orthopedic knee specialist, treats patients in Arlington Heights, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, IL, who have experienced a multi-ligament knee injury.

How is a multi-ligament knee reconstruction done?

First, Dr. Lamplot will evaluate the patient’s injury to determine the best course of treatment in order to return normal function to the knee. He will typically require that diagnostic imaging such as an MRI scan is performed, in order to determine if surgery is required and how the multi-ligament knee reconstruction will need to be performed. On the day of surgery, Dr. Lamplot may utilize multiple surgical techniques including arthroscopic and open approaches to best perform the multi-ligament knee reconstruction. First, he will remove any damaged tissue in the knee joint. Then, Dr. Lamplot will then use a ligament tissue graft to replace the torn ligaments and secure them in the proper anatomical position using strong sutures, surgical anchors, and surgical buttons.

What is the recovery like after a multi-ligament knee reconstruction?

Immediately following a multi-ligament knee reconstruction, the patient’s knee will be immobilized with a brace, and crutches will need to be used to limit the weight placed on the knee and with the healing process. Pain and swelling will be managed using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) as well as ice and elevation. Dr. Lamplot may choose to prescribe additional pain medication to be taken at his discretion. A physical therapy program will begin soon after surgery to restore the strength, range of motion, and flexibility of the knee joint. It is imperative that patients comply fully with Dr. Lamplot’s instructions and the physical therapy program to ensure the success of their multi-ligament knee reconstruction. Full recovery including the return to sporting activities can be expected in approximately 9 to 12 months following surgery.

Multi-Ligament Reconstruction Surgeon