Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a thin set of tissues present on the outer side of the knee, connecting the thighbone (femur) to the fibula (side bone of lower leg). It provides stability as well as limits the sidewise rotation of the knee. Tear or injury of LCL may cause instability of the knee that can be either reconstructed or repaired to regain the strength and movement of the knee.
The knee is the largest joint of the body and is stabilized by a set of ligaments. In the knee, there are four primary ligaments. anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL).
Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) may tear due to trauma, sports injuries, or direct blow on the knee. Torn LCL may result in pain, swelling and even instability of the knee. LCL injuries and torn LCL can be diagnosed through physical examination and by employing imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRI scan.
The treatment of the torn LCL include non-surgical interventions such as rest, ice, elevation, bracing and physical therapy to help reduce swelling, and regain activity as well as strength and flexibility of the knee. Depending on a variety of factors, nonoperative or surgical treatment may be most appropriate. This will be determined after physical exam, x rays, and possibly MRI.
Procedure
LCL reconstruction involves replacement of the torn ligament with healthy strong tissue or graft. The tissue or graft can be taken either from the tissue bank (called allograft) or from the patient's body (called autograft). The type of graft used, depends upon the condition of the patient and choice of your surgeon. Hamstring tendons are commonly used as autograft, as removal of such tendons does not affect the strength of the legs and effectively stabilizes the knee. A small incision is made on the lateral side of the knee to perform the LCL reconstruction. The procedure is done through an open incision and not arthroscopically. The thighbone and fibula bones are drilled precisely and accurately with specialized instruments to form tunnels. The ends of the tendon graft are passed through tunnels and are fixed by using screws, metal staples or large sutures. The knee undergone LCL reconstruction surgery is braced for 6-8 weeks.
Post-operative care
Postoperative care of LCL injuries requires a specific postoperative protocol that will be discussed with you. You will likely be place in a special brace for about 6 weeks and formal physical therapy will be started.
Risks and complications
Some of the possible risks and complication associated with LCL reconstruction include:
- Chronic pain
- Knee weakness
- Knee instability
- Peroneal nerve injury
