MCL tear Flashcards
what is the function of the MCL?
The MCL primary function is to act as a valgus stabiliser of the knee and is most often injured when external rotational forces are applied to the lateral knee, such as a impact to the outside of the knee.
what is the most commonly injured ligament of the knee?
MCL
what are the grades of MCL injury?
grade 1 = mild, with no loss of integrity and minimally torn fibres
grade 2 = moderate injury with an incomplete tear and increased laxity
grade 3 = severe injury, with a complete tear and gross laxity of the MCL
what are the clinical features of an MCL tear?
present after trauma to lateral aspect of knee
immediate medial joint line pain
hear a pop
increased laxity when testing MCL
what investigations can be done?
plain film radiograph to exclude any fracture.
The gold-standard investigation to confirm the diagnosis for an MCL tear is via MRI scanning
how is a MCL tear managed?
Grade I Injury: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) with analgesia (typically NSAIDs) as the mainstay. Strength training as tolerated should be incorporated, with an aim to return to full exercise within around 6 weeks.
Grade II Injury: Analgesia with a knee brace and weight-bearing/strength training as tolerated. Patients should aim to be able to return to full exercise within around 10 weeks
Grade III Injury: Analgesia with a knee brace and crutches, however any associated distal avulsion then surgery is considered. Patients should aim to be able to return to full exercise within around 12 weeks.
what are the complications of an MCL tear?
instability in the joint and damage to the saphenous nerve.
