Problem areas in the diagnosis and treatment of ligament injuries of the knee.

The importance of the correct and early diagnosis of these soft tissue injuries to the knee cannot be overemphasized. There is a definite place for non-operative management of carefully selected patients. Realistic goals and expectations of surgery must be discussed with the patient to avoid postoperative misunderstandings. A more aggressive approach to cruciate ligament injuries, early mobilization of repairs and reconstructions, and a better understanding of the complexities of rotatory instability represent some of the recent, major advances in knee ligament surgery. Well supervised and constructed rehabilitation programs in the care of these injuries are essential if satisfactory results are to be achieved.