Results of two-stage operative treatment of anteromedial instability of the knee.

BACKGROUND

Proper treatment of massive knee injuries still constitutes a challenge for clinicians. Most often a torsion knee injury results in a rupture of the medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament. There is still no consensus on whether total rupture (Grade III) of the medial collateral ligament requires surgery, but it is well known that anterior cruciate ligament injury will require reconstructive surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 27 patients treated with two-staged surgery (primary MCL repair and delayed ACL reconstruction) were enrolled. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the IKDC scale and Lysholm scale. The range of motion and knee stability was assessed during a clinical examination. Radiographs were used to evaluate the placement of suture anchors and development of osteoarthritic lesions. Static and dynamic ultrasound examinations were also performed to assess the post-operative morphology and performance of the medial collateral ligament.

RESULTS

The patients who had undergone surgery for combined anteromedial instability of the knee, achieved good or very good clinical outcome according to the IKDC scale (63%, 17 of 27) and the Lysholm scale (74%, 20 of 27). Unsatisfactory functional outcomes were more often seen in older patients. Some patients developed complications, which significantly worsened the outcome. Those mainly included a limited range of movement, arthrofibrosis and Pellegrini-Stieda lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

1.Two-stage operative treatment produces good or very good results in most patients. Nevertheless, there is a risk of complications in some cases, mostly in patients aged 40 years. Accordingly, two-stage treatment is currently recommended in younger individuals. 2. A complete MCL tear at the distal attachment should be given particular attention. Although such injury is rare, due to the anatomical determinants and the risk of Stener-like lesions, i.e. unhealed ML, surgery is recommended. Surgery produces good clinical and functional results.