Treatment of acute and chronic anterior cruciate ligament-posterior cruciate ligament-lateral side knee injuries.

Abstract

Knee dislocations are rare but devastating injuries. The ACL-PCL-lateral side injury combination is representative of the challenges these injuries present. Early management is focused on vascular integrity. When possible, acute repair and reconstruction within 3 weeks from injury is preferred. Chronically deficient knees generally will require lateral side reconstruction rather than repair and may require limb realignment. Addressing all injured structures is imperative to afford the best chance at a reasonable outcome. Good results with surgery are possible, but some degree of persistent disability is to be expected.