Name of the Procedure:

Ligamentous reconstruction (augmentation), knee; intra-articular (open) and extra-articular.
Common names: Knee ligament reconstruction, Intra-articular and extra-articular knee ligament surgery.

Summary

Ligamentous reconstruction of the knee involves surgically repairing or augmenting damaged ligaments inside (intra-articular) and outside (extra-articular) the knee joint. The surgery aims to restore stability and function to the knee, often following significant injury or ligament tear.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Torn or severely damaged knee ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL).
• Goals and Outcomes: To restore knee stability, improve joint function, and allow the patient to return to normal activities or sports.

Indications

• Symptoms such as knee instability, pain, or difficulty walking.
• Conditions like acute ligament tears, chronic knee instability, or significant knee injuries.
• Patients who have not responded adequately to non-surgical treatments.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: The patient may need to fast for a certain period before surgery. Adjustments to medications, especially blood thinners, might be necessary.
• Diagnostic Tests: MRI or X-rays to assess the extent of ligament damage.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically administered.
2. Incision: An incision is made to access the knee joint.
3. Intra-articular Reconstruction: Damaged intra-articular ligaments are repaired or replaced using grafts, often harvested from the patient’s own body or a donor.
4. Extra-articular Augmentation: Extra-articular structures are reinforced to provide additional support.
5. Tools and Equipment: Arthroscope, surgical instruments, graft materials.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts 2-3 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, blood clots, and knee stiffness.
• Rare Risks: Graft rejection, nerve damage, and long-term instability.
• Management: Antibiotics, anticoagulants, and physical therapy.

Benefits

• Improved knee stability and function.
• Restoration of mobility and ability to participate in various activities.
• Benefits may be realized within several months of post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Use of knee braces or crutches.
• Recovery Time: Generally, 6-12 months for full recovery. Physical therapy is crucial.
• Restrictions: Limited weight-bearing and activity; follow-up appointments for monitoring progress.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical Options: Physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification.
• Pros and Cons: Non-surgical treatments may alleviate symptoms but might not restore full function or stability.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients will be under anesthesia and will not feel pain during surgery.
• After the Procedure: Some pain and swelling are expected; pain management includes medications and comfort measures like ice packs. Full mobility will gradually return with rehabilitation efforts.

This procedure can be a critical intervention to regain knee stability and function, enabling patients to return to their daily and athletic activities with confidence.