Multiligament Knee Injuries
Surgical Treatment & Rehabilitation
What Are Multiligament Knee Injuries?
Multiligament knee injuries are severe injuries involving rupture of two or more stabilizing ligaments of the knee, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and the posterolateral corner (PLC).
These injuries cause significant knee instability and disruption of normal biomechanics. They usually occur after high-energy trauma, sports injuries, or road traffic accidents and are often associated with meniscal, cartilage, or neurovascular damage.
When Is Surgery Required?
Severe knee instability
Significant instability affecting daily function
Combined ACL, PCL, and PLC injuries
Multiple ligament ruptures
Posterolateral corner injury
With rotational instability of the knee
Athletes or physically active individuals
Active patients wanting to return to sports
Failure of conservative treatment
When non-surgical therapy is unsuccessful
Surgical Management
Treatment is individualized and depends on:
- The number of injured ligaments
- Involvement of the posterolateral corner
- Patient activity level
- Associated cartilage or bone injuries
Surgical reconstruction is performed using arthroscopic or combined arthroscopic–open techniques, aiming for anatomical restoration of all injured structures.
Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation program is individualized and follows specific phases:
0–6 weeks
Graft protection, swelling control
6–12 weeks
Restoration of motion and strength
3–6 months
Proprioception and functional training
6–9 months
Gradual return to sports