Controversies in the treatment of knee dislocations and multiligament reconstruction

J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2009 Apr;17(4):197-206. doi: 10.5435/00124635-200904000-00001.

Abstract

A systematic approach to evaluation and treatment is needed for the patient with knee dislocation. There is a paucity of high-level evidence on which to base treatment decisions. Reported controversies related to the treatment of the multiligament-injured knee include the selective use of arteriography for vascular assessment, serial physical examination with the ankle-brachial index, acute surgical treatment of all damaged structures, the selective application of preoperative and postoperative joint-spanning external fixation, arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament, simultaneous open reconstruction with repair of the posterolateral corner, reconstruction and/or repair of the posteromedial corner, and the use of allograft tissue.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ankle Brachial Index
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery*
  • Arthroscopy / methods
  • External Fixators
  • Humans
  • Knee Dislocation / rehabilitation
  • Knee Dislocation / surgery*
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery*
  • Transplantation, Homologous