Name of the Procedure:

Repair, primary, torn ligament and/or capsule, knee; collateral
Common Names: Collateral ligament repair surgery, Knee ligament reconstruction

Summary

In this surgical procedure, damaged ligaments in the knee, specifically the collateral ligaments, are repaired or reconstructed. The goal is to restore stability, function, and strength to the knee by addressing tears or damage to these ligaments.

Purpose

This procedure addresses injuries to the collateral ligaments of the knee, which often occur due to trauma or sports-related activities. The primary goal is to stabilize the knee, alleviate pain, and restore normal movement and function.

Indications

• Significant knee instability
• Persistent knee pain
• Difficulty bearing weight or walking
• Swelling or bruising around the knee
• Previous conservative treatments (e.g., physical therapy, bracing) have failed

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially for blood thinners.
• Preoperative assessments might include MRI or X-ray imaging to evaluate the extent of the ligament damage.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given either general anesthesia or a spinal block to numb the lower body.
2. Incisions: Small incisions are made around the knee.
3. Repair: The surgeon locates and repairs the torn collateral ligament, sometimes using sutures or grafts.
4. Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Tools/Equipment: Arthroscopic tools, surgical sutures, graft materials if needed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of the injury.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital or surgical center, often on an outpatient basis.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Stiffness in the knee
• Re-tearing of the ligament
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Improved knee stability
• Reduced pain and swelling
• Enhanced mobility and function
• Shorter recovery time compared to non-surgical treatment

Recovery

• The patient will need to use crutches or a knee brace for several weeks.
• Physical therapy is often required to restore strength and range of motion.
• Most patients can return to normal activities within 3 to 6 months, although full recovery might take up to a year.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Knee bracing
• Medication for pain management
• Minimally invasive procedures, such as arthroscopic surgery Pros and Cons: Non-surgical options may not fully restore stability and may have longer recovery times. Surgical repair offers greater and faster stability but comes with surgical risks.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and will not feel pain. Postoperative discomfort can be managed with pain medications. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and limited mobility initially, but these symptoms typically improve with time and physical therapy.