LCL Surgery
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Surgery
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) is a thin band that runs along the outside of the knee and connects the femur to the fibula. For those who have experienced a complete lateral, or fibular collateral ligament tear, commonly referred to as an LCL tear, you’re undoubtedly familiar with the pain and instability that comes with such an injury. In certain instances, an LCL injury can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, for example. Additionally, those who are injured can benefit greatly from RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) therapy.
What are the Symptoms of an LCL Tear or Injury?
An injury to the LCL can include a complete tear, partial tear or stretch. This type of injury often goes hand in hand with a knee dislocation and is generally brought on by a blow to the knee. With an LCL tear or injury you may have the following symptoms:
- Swelling
- Instability
- Locking or catching
- Tenderness and pain on the outside of the knee
- Abnormal range of motion
How is a Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Tear Diagnosed?
Aside from the pain and limited mobility, the only way to know the extent of an LCL injury is to undergo an exam. During the exam, the practitioner will use radiography to help confirm whether or not your LCL is completely torn.
What is Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Surgery?
When the lateral collateral ligament is completely torn, surgery is necessary in order to resolve pain and regain mobility. LCL surgery is an open surgery procedure where a scalpel is used to make a small incision; and once the incision has been made, the surgeon will then insert the instruments necessary to conduct the surgery. In some cases, open surgery can be done in conjunction with arthroscopy, a procedure that involves diagnosing and treating problems inside the joint.
What is the Recovery Process After Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Surgery?
Post-surgery protocols for Lateral Collateral Ligament surgery involve the patient undergoing rehabilitation to help regain the loss of range of motion in their knee. Initially, patients begin with range-of-motion exercises where they are instructed to move their knee from 0 to 90 degrees. After two weeks, they will attempt to gain an even greater range of motion, based on recommendations from their physical therapist. Patients are encouraged to limit the amount of weight they place on their injured leg during the recovery period.
Why Choose Treasure Valley Hospital for LCL Surgery?
As with any medical/surgical procedure, you’re encouraged to do your due diligence and find a healthcare professional that is well-versed in treating your specific injury. If you’re in the Boise area, consider seeking an orthopedist who can perform your surgery at Treasure Valley Hospital. We are Idaho’s number one physician-owned hospital. Collectively, our medical facility has some of the most highly skilled clinical staff in the state, and we all work to provide patients with high-quality, low-cost surgical procedures because we have a personal interest in your care.
For an estimate of the cost of your LCL surgery, visit our surgery cost calculator page: www.treasurevalleyhospital.com/Cost-Calculator