Knee Injuries: Surgical Repair & Rehabilitation
From ACL tears to meniscus damage, knee injuries require expert surgical repair and comprehensive rehabilitation. Modern arthroscopic techniques allow faster recovery and return to sport.
Understanding Knee Injuries
Knee injuries commonly occur from sports, accidents, or degenerative conditions. Ligament tears, meniscus damage, and cartilage injuries can cause pain, swelling, and instability. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal recovery and return to normal activities.
Common Knee Injuries
ACL Tear
Anterior cruciate ligament rupture, often from sudden twisting or deceleration
Meniscus Tear
Cartilage tear causing pain, clicking, and swelling in the knee
Collateral Ligament Injury
MCL or LCL damage causing lateral or medial knee instability
Cartilage Damage
Chondral or osteochondral defects affecting joint surface
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Pain behind the kneecap, often from overuse or malalignment
Knee Ligament Combinations
Multiple ligament injuries requiring complex reconstruction
Treatment Approach
Accurate Diagnosis
Comprehensive evaluation to identify all injuries
- ✓Physical examination and functional testing
- ✓MRI imaging for detailed soft tissue assessment
- ✓Ultrasound for dynamic evaluation
- ✓Discussion of symptoms and mechanism of injury
Surgical Planning
Determining the best surgical approach
- ✓Minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques when possible
- ✓Reconstruction vs. repair decisions
- ✓Allograft or autograft considerations
- ✓Staged procedures if multiple injuries present
Rehabilitation Protocol
Guided recovery program for optimal outcomes
- ✓Structured physiotherapy program
- ✓Progressive weight-bearing protocol
- ✓Strength and conditioning exercises
- ✓Sport-specific training and return to play clearance
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Arthroscopic Repair
Minimally invasive camera-guided surgery allowing faster recovery with small incisions and reduced tissue trauma.
Ligament Reconstruction
Using autograft or allograft tissue to reconstruct torn ligaments, restoring knee stability and function.
Recovery Timeline
Week 1: Immediate Post-Op
- Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE protocol)
- Pain management with medication
- Crutches for mobility assistance
- Gentle range of motion exercises
Weeks 2-4: Early Rehabilitation
- Swelling and pain gradually decrease
- Begin physiotherapy sessions 2-3 times weekly
- Strengthening exercises for quad and hamstring
- Progress to weight-bearing as tolerated
Weeks 8-12: Advanced Strengthening
- Full weight-bearing without aids
- Increased exercise intensity and complexity
- Balance and proprioception training
- Return to daily activities
Months 4-6: Sport-Specific Training
- Sport-specific exercises and drills
- Agility and speed work
- Gradual return to competitive activity
- Most athletes return to full sport
Quick Facts
Procedure Time
30-90 min
Hospital Stay
Same day
Weight Bearing
1-2 weeks
Full Recovery
2-6 months
Return to Sports
3-6 months