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Knee Trauma and Dislocation

OVERVIEW

Knee injuries or dislocations can lead to knee instability and affect movement. Knee injuries involve trauma to one or more tissues that make up the knee joint. These injuries are also called multi-ligament knee injuries (MLKI). The knee joint is made up of ligaments, tendons, menisci, cartilage, bones and muscles. These injuries may occur due to a forceful twisting of the knee, a fall, or a high impact from a motor vehicle accident or another force. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and meniscus tears are the most common sports injuries that may occur in the knee.

Dislocations occur when the position of the thighbone (femur) relative to the shinbone (tibia) becomes disrupted at the knee joint. This may occur completely or partially. For example, the tibia and femur may be forced out of alignment, and the patella may also slip out of place.

Signs and symptoms:

The common signs and symptoms of knee dislocations include a popping sound, an unstable knee, knee pain, parts of the knee that seem to have been knocked out of place, the inability to do activities or sports like you normally would, and swelling and severe bruises. Symptoms of ligament injuries may include pain at the sides of the knee, swelling over the site of the injury and instability.

How are knee injuries and dislocations treated?

The first line of treatment is RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) and, thereafter, rehabilitation. However, if conservative treatment fails, or depending on your injury, Dr le Roux may recommend surgery. Surgery may be indicated to treat broken bones, torn ligaments, damaged nerves and damaged blood vessels. The orthopaedic surgeon may do arthroscopic surgery, which involves the use of an arthroscope (a tiny tube that has a camera attached to it). This scope allows the surgeon to view inside the knee joint.

He will make small incisions over the knee joint and pass through the arthroscope and small surgical instruments to repair, reconstruct and treat knee injuries.

FAQ

1What can I expect after surgery?

After surgery, you may wear a knee brace during recovery. Physical therapy will be recommended to strengthen the leg muscles around the knee and to bring a full range of motion back to the joint.

2What are the complications of a knee dislocation?

Knee dislocation may cause serious complications if left untreated. If the dislocation causes a tear of the blood vessels, an amputation may be required. Knee dislocations may also cause blood clots in the deep veins of your legs (deep venous thrombosis) and acute compartment syndrome. Acute compartment syndrome occurs when the swelling in the muscles causes the buildup of pressure in the blood vessel, nerves and muscles. Seek medical attention if you experience the above-mentioned complications.

3Can knee damage be caused by underlying conditions?

Ultra-low velocity knee dislocations (ULVKD) occur in severely overweight individuals while they are doing normal activities of daily living. Despite the low energy of the injury, these commonly cause severe damage to the joint and blood vessels and have a high risk for amputation.

When is the right time to have surgery?

Typically, surgery is indicated when conservative treatment such as pain relievers or cold/heat therapy, has failed.
Dr le Roux will examine you and review your medical history before advising surgery.

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