What is MCL/PCL/LCL Repair?(2)
A ligament repair is performed under general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. For an MCL or LCL ligament repair, an open incision is made on the inner or outer part of the knee. For a PCL repair, tiny incisions are made and the procedure is performed arthroscopically.
The Procedure. After the incisions are made, the torn ligament is removed and a new one is put in its place. The new ligament may be tendons harvested from the patient or a cadaver. Special devices are used to secure the ligament to the bone and a physical examination ensures it functions properly. The incisions are closed and sterilely dressed and the patient is placed in a hinged knee brace set to a locked position. The patient returns home after there are awake and alert and their pain is under control. Physical therapy is started as soon as possible and continues throughout recovery. Total recovery time may take 3-12 months depending on the type and severity of the tear.
Dr Abdul D Khan
MBBS(AMC, Vizag) MRCS(Edin, UK) MRCS(Glasg, UK) FRCS(Tr & Orth, UK) CCT(Tr & Orth, UK)