Multi Ligament Surgery

Multi-ligament surgery is the surgical repair or reconstruction of two or more ligaments in the knee joint following an injury. This procedure is typically required when multiple ligaments are damaged, causing significant instability and functional impairment in the knee.

A multi-ligament injury involves damage to two or more ligaments in the knee and typically occurs after a high-impact trauma or forceful blow to the joint. Often, other structures within the knee may also be affected, including the meniscus, tibia (shin bone), femur (thigh bone), patella (kneecap), articular cartilage (lining of the joint), and surrounding soft tissues.

Types of multi ligament injury

There are many types of multi-ligament injuries due to the variety of ligaments and other structures that can be damaged in the knee. Some ligaments are more commonly injured in combination with other structures, for example:

  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) + medial collateral ligament (MCL)
  • ACL + posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)
  • ACL + MCL + meniscus
  • PCL + LCL (lateral collateral ligament)
  • PCL + MCL + posterolateral corner (PLC)
  • ACL + PCL + meniscus

Treatment for multi ligament injuries

Multi-ligament injuries cause significant pain and instability in the knee and generally require a longer recovery period compared to injuries involving only one or two structures. Treatment for a severe multi-ligament injury almost always involves surgery. Multi-ligament surgery consists of repairing or reconstructing the injured ligaments. The exact surgical technique used depends on the specific ligaments and structures damaged, the severity of the injury, and other influencing factors.

Surgery after a severe multi-ligament injury is essential to prevent marked instability, persistent pain, poor knee function, and the rapid development of arthritis. Multi-ligament surgery significantly improves the likelihood of restoring knee function and provides a better long-term outlook for the joint.

Physiotherapy before multi ligament surgery

Immediately after sustaining a multi-ligament knee injury, it is important to begin a comprehensive physiotherapy programme to better prepare your knee for surgery and reduce recovery time afterwards. The primary goals of physiotherapy with Ace Physio Sports are to strengthen the injured knee as much as possible, support surrounding joints such as the hip and ankle, and strengthen the opposite leg to provide additional support for your injured knee.

Symptoms after multi ligament surgery

After undergoing multi-ligament surgery, you can expect pain, swelling, and reduced function in and around your knee. Initially, you will be provided with elbow crutches, as you will not be able to bear weight on your operated leg. Additionally, a knee brace will be required to protect the joint and keep the knee in a straight position during the early stages of recovery.

Physiotherapy after multi ligament surgery

Your physiotherapy programme with Ace Physio Sports following multi-ligament surgery is crucial for the success of your surgery. The exact programme will depend on several factors, including:

  • Type and number of ligaments repaired or reconstructed
  • Severity of the injury
  • Extent of damage to other structures (meniscus, cartilage, bone, soft tissues)
  • Age and general health of the patient
  • Pre-existing knee function and strength
  • Compliance with rehabilitation and post-operative instructions

The general principles of your rehabilitation with Ace Physio Sports after multi-ligament surgery are to:

  • Control pain and swelling in the knee joint
  • Protect the repaired ligaments and surrounding structures
  • Regain and maintain range of motion (ROM) in the knee
  • Restore muscle strength in the knee, hip, ankle, and core
  • Re-educate gait and functional movement patterns
  • Improve balance, coordination, and proprioception
  • Progressively return to normal activities, work, hobbies, and sports

After multi-ligament surgery, Ace Physio Sports will provide you with an individualised physiotherapy programme specifically tailored to your current condition, recovery progress, and rehabilitation goals.

Early stages of rehabilitation

  • Control pain and swelling through ice, elevation, and compression
  • Maintain range of motion (ROM) within safe limits
  • Prevent muscle atrophy by activating surrounding muscles of the knee, hip, and ankle
  • Strengthen the opposite leg to provide support for your injured knee
  • Educate on safe movement and gait while using crutches or a brace

Later stages of rehabilitation

  • Progressively increase weight bearing and remove reliance on crutches
  • Restore full range of motion (ROM) in the knee
  • Strengthen muscles around the knee, hip, ankle, and core for optimal support
  • Improve balance, coordination, and proprioception
  • Re-educate gait and functional movement patterns
  • Introduce sport- or activity-specific exercises to prepare for return to your normal activities

Summary

Multi-ligament surgery is essential if you have suffered severe damage to two or more ligaments in your knee joint. Surgery is required to repair or reconstruct the injured ligaments, restoring stability and normal function to your knee. A comprehensive, individualised physiotherapy programme with Ace Physio Sports is critical to ensure the success of your surgery and to help you regain full strength and function in your knee. The type of surgery and the activities involved in your rehabilitation will depend on the specific injury you have sustained. Ace Physio Sports will provide you with a tailored programme, designed specifically for your recovery. This ensures that you can safely return to your job, hobbies, or sports as efficiently as possible. 📞 Call Ace Physio Sports now on +65 81535374 for more information or to book an appointment!

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