Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee

What is Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee?

Multiligament knee reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair or replace two or more damaged ligaments of the knee joint. The surgery can be performed using minimally invasive techniques.

Indications for Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee

Multiligament reconstruction of the knee is usually indicated in cases of high-energy knee injuries where multiple knee ligaments are torn or avulsed such as:

Motor vehicle accidents
A direct blow to the knee
Falling on the knee from a height
High-impact sports injuries

Symptoms of Multiligament Knee Injuries

Patients with multiligament knee injuries may experience:

Pain
Swelling
Limited range of motion
Injuries to nerves and arteries of the leg
Knee instability

Diagnosis of Multiligament Knee Injuries

To accurately detect which ligaments are torn and the extent of the tears the following diagnostic procedures may be performed:

Comprehensive clinical evaluation of the knee
Imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI scans
Arthroscopic examination

Procedure for Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Depending on which ligaments or tendons are torn, your surgeon will discuss with you either an arthroscopic, open, or combined surgery to repair or reconstruct the torn structures.
A ligament may also be reconstructed using a graft taken from the patient (autograft) or donor tissue (allograft).
If the ACL or PCL are torn and require reconstruction, your surgeon will speak with you about the specifics of this procedure in detail.

Post-operative Care Following Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee

Following the surgery, you will be given pain medication to keep you comfortable. You may or may not be placed into a brace depending on what procedure was performed. Your weight bearing status will also be directed based on which procedures were performed. Full recovery often takes 6-12 months.

Risks and Complications of Multiligament Reconstruction of the Knee

As with any surgery, there are risks and complications that may occur following a multiligament knee reconstruction. These can include:

Complications of the anesthesia
Bleeding
Infection
Vascular or nerve injury
DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot)
Failure of the reconstruction