LCL, PCL, ACL injury knee

Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury of the knee can be caused by a varus stress, twisting of the knee when weight-bearing or repeated stress of LCL. Along with the LCL, PCL, ACL, injuries are possible.

Anatomy

The LCL is a strong connection between the lateral epicondyle of the femur (thigh bone) and the head of the fibula. It prevents various stress on the knee and tibial external rotation and thus a stabilizer of the knee.

Symptoms of combined LCL, PCL, ACL

It is usually associated with the dislocation of knee joint.

• Pain
• Swelling
• Inability to walk
• Sometimes with vascular injury

Causes of combined LCL, PCL, ACL

• Road traffic accidents

Treatment

• Arthroscopic PCL and open LCL reconstruction. BPT – Bone patella tendon for PCL and Hamstring if intact and available can be used for LCL reconstruction.
• If BPT and Hamstring are lost, other leg Hamstring can be used. If not Allograft can be used to reconstruct PCL, LCL.