KNEE LIGAMENT INJURIES

They most commonly occur during sports activities and less frequently due to traffic accidents. They are high-energy and sudden in onset. In the acute phase, swelling, pain, and loss of movement occur in the knee. In the chronic phase, there may be a feeling of instability, giving way, and catching in the knee joint. Surgical treatment is often required. Usually, these injuries involve all four ligaments.

1. ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Injuries

These are the most common injuries. They may occur together with other ligament, meniscus, and cartilage injuries. They can be partial or complete tears. Untreated tears can lead to secondary meniscus and cartilage damage in the chronic phase. Treatment is usually surgical.

2. PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) Injuries

These are less common. They may occur alone but are often associated with other ligament injuries. Sometimes, they present as small avulsion fractures. The degree of ligament involvement is important in treatment. Both surgical and non-surgical methods can be used.

3. MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) Injuries

These are among the most common ligament injuries. The degree of ligament involvement is the main factor determining treatment. Conservative (non-surgical) treatments are usually sufficient. Surgical treatment may be required for severe tears and multiple ligament injuries.

4. LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) Injuries

These are less common ligament injuries. They often accompany other ligament injuries. Depending on the degree of ligament involvement, both conservative and surgical methods can be used for treatment.